Applying for university

For many, the pinnacle of education is applying and starting a course at university. University is the gateway into many technical, vocational, and professional forms of employment. However, given that this is most likely the toughest, hardest, and most important decision that you will make so far in your career, it needs to be given a considerable amount of thought. Choosing the right university is no easy task - Do you stay local? Do you move to a big city? Do you go abroad? There are so many things to consider, and then, of course, the even more important decision centers on the course you pursue. Once you have figured out the course and the destination, there is still one final thing to do –the application. In the UK, the application process is both competitive and rigorous, making it crucial for prospective students to prepare adequately. However, with the right guidance and top tips, you can make the journey to university admissions much smoother. This blog will walk you through the UK university application process and provide valuable advice to help you succeed. For some helpful tips and guidance read on:

The first thing to consider about applying to university is the course. This should always come before the destination. Different universities will have different academic strengths and weaknesses. A breakdown of each university’s strengths and weaknesses, and how they rank against other universities, can be found on the Times Higher Education Website. When picking your university course you need to ensure that it is something that you either want to pursue employment or something that can lead to a future job. The course does not necessarily have to lead directly to a graduate job; for instance, many students who study in the humanities and social sciences may go on to pursue employment in banks, as accountants and lawyers. Essentially your course is the first stepping-stone to your future life –so pick it wisely after all you will have to study, research, and be examined on it for the next three years.  Some top tips to keep your planning focused: a. Does the course align with your interests: Choose a course that genuinely interests you, as you will be more motivated to study and excel in a subject that you're passionate about. b. Consider your career goals: Think about your long-term career goals and how the course you choose will help you achieve them. c. Research the modules and content: Delve into the specific modules and content of the course to ensure they match your expectations and academic strengths.

2. Selecting The university

We have already mentioned the Times Higher Education website as a good tool for comparing the quality of different universities. However, if you want an insight into what students think about the course or university you are thinking of applying to then the National Student Survey would be a good website to check out. The NSS is an annual survey completed by final years about their three years on the course they studied, and the university they studied it at.   When choosing a university the location of it is key; for instance, do you want a campus-based university like Queen Mary or one with buildings across central London like King’s College or University College London? Of course, in London, living centrally has many perks such as being close to uni and most attractions, but the payoff is the high cost of living. There are plenty of living options available to you that you can commute from, with more attractive rates. With many public transport links, from the bus, tube, docklands light railway, and even by boat –there is no excuse for not making your classes!

3. The application

Applying for higher education is managed by UCAS; it is through their website that you will apply for your course. The most important aspect of the application is the personal statement you have to write –the rest of the form is mandatory details about you. The personal statement is 4,000 characters long, and it is here that you are given the opportunity to show your university admissions officers why you should be accepted. There are a few things that you should include within the statement

1. Why you want to study this course

2. How it might help you with your future career

3. If you have any relevant work experience or extra-curricular activities, such as the Duke of Edinburgh scheme or any volunteering you may have done.

  When it comes to writing the actual statement avoid using ‘flowery’ language, and write in a concise, natural, and enthusiastic style. You want to show that you are deeply interested in the subject. Try to avoid using cliché quotations at the start of your personal statement, as this is quite a common method of starting. You want to ensure that your statement reflects your personality, interests, and future ambitions -this is your time to show off what you have achieved at school, and what you want to achieve at university.  And always remember to

1. Proofread your application and personal statement. Better yet – get a parent or friend to double-check your work

2. Submit your application promptly

3. Secure strong references – from your tutors and individuals who can vouch for your academic abilities and character

4. The interview

Some courses hold interviews, this is particularly common for Medicine, veterinary, and dentistry. It is essential to prepare thoroughly for this stage. It is a good idea to speak to your career advisors at school to get some extra advice and in-person training. You can also follow these tips and read our blog on how to prepare for a successful interview.   a. Research Interview Formats: Understand the format of the interview and what they may ask. Practice with mock interviews if necessary. b. Review Your Personal Statement: Be ready to discuss the content of your personal statement and elaborate on your motivations and interests. c. Prepare Questions: Think of questions to ask the interviewers about the course, university, and anything else you're curious about.

5. Stay calm and focus on your exams

Once submitted all you can do is wait. You have done all you can do for the application and now you should focus your energies on getting the grades and finishing your schooling. The university application process can be emotionally challenging. Remember that it's normal to face setbacks or rejections. Stay positive and resilient, and remember that alternative pathways or gap years can still lead to your desired career.

6. Start to look at student accommodation

There are a range of options for accommodation – universities have on-campus halls and there are private halls and HMOs (Houses of Multiple Occupants). Renting with the university is great – it is often subsidised by the university and is close to the uni’s. One major downside is that they often squeeze as many people into a flat as possible, the management is poor and the facilities are run down and old. HMOs can be great if you have a group of friends. The downside here is that you have to deal with a landlord and manage that relationship- some can be successful and some a total nightmare getting something fixed in a timely way. Then you have your private student accommodations like Scape. We have buildings in Guildford, Leeds and across London, and we own and manage our buildings. That means we look after everything, we have our own dedicated 24/7 staff and maintenance, host regular events, and have amazing communal spaces and areas for students to enjoy. We think it is a no-brainer!

Applying for university is a difficult, important and significant decision – the most important decision of your life so far. Make sure you invest time, effort and thought into choosing the right course and university. This is your life after all, and ultimately it is your decision!