Some pointers on what to think abour before applying to Higher
Education.
a) When choosing which universities you wish to apply to
decide on a realistic mileage from your home as to how far you want
to travel. Some people want to keep near to home so they can
see their friends and family whilst others prefer to be further
away.
b) Decide what subject you want to study
at Higher Education. Do you know what career you would like
to enter? What if you are unsure, or are taking subjects that
you no longer wish to continue with but would still like to enter
Higher Education? Talk to a Connexions Adviser to consider
your options. In some cases those who do not have the
required subjects can take a Foundation Year (0) in science and
engineering degrees (not the same as a Foundation degree).
c) You might like to try the Stamford
Test on the UCAS website that helps you match your degree choice to
your skills and interests.
d) Find out what your estimated grades
are and choose degree courses appropriately. Many courses
specify a range of “points” they will consider. Look at
the UCAS
tariff. Some universities may
ask for passes in certain GCSE subjects so you may need to consider
this as well.
Others may require you to pass an
admissions test in certain subjects.
e) There are university league tables
produced by newspapers and the popular press. You may even
find books in the careers library ranking universities.
Although these can be useful you should not place too much emphasis
on them.
f) Go along to university Open Days if
you can. Certainly research how much accommodation will cost
and how far it is from the main campus.
g) Applications are made on line from
September, but do your research earlier than this, preferably at
the end of Year 12. You use a system called
Apply
that’s administered by UCAS
h) One of the most important parts of a
UCAS application is the Personal Statement. This is your
chance to sell yourself to university admissions tutors. Look
at this example of how not to write your personal
statement.
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How not to write a UCAS personal statement
(39KB, 1 pages)
i) In some cases
universities may invite you to an interview as part of the
application process. Follow the general advice on interviews,
but also take the opportunity to investigate the campus and look at
accommodation and facilities.