Is University Right for You and How Do You Apply?

Deciding whether university is right for you is a decision that requires a lot of thought.

University is a popular choice for many, but it’s not for everyone. Some people might choose to go straight into the world of work. Other people might do apprenticeships or other courses. But going to university to get a degree is a common choice.

Applying

To apply for university, you must apply through UCAS, which is the admissions service for people to apply for university.

To make an application through UCAS, you must first create an account on UCAS, link it with your school or college, and then add all your personal details.

This includes personal information, educational background, references and you’ll have to write a personal statement. It’s important to write a strong personal statement as it’s an opportunity to show the university who you are and what you hope to achieve from doing the programme.

When do I need to apply by?

In general, most courses that start in September will close their applications in January. However, if you’re applying for certain courses or universities, the deadlines can be different.

Prospective medicine students and those wishing to apply for top universities, like Cambridge or Oxford, are expected to submit their application in October.

The process of application can be different if you’re applying to a conservatoire as you must audition for these establishments. Some of these establishments are also not on UCAS, so you’ll need to expand your search outside of UCAS.

To apply for university, you must also pay a fee. The price differs depending on how many courses you apply for or what school you’re making an application for, so make sure you’re aware of how much you need to pay so there’s no big surprises when you come to the end of your application.

Offers

Over the next few weeks and months, you’ll start to receive responses from the universities you’ve applied for.

There are four responses you might receive:

• An invitation to interview (which would lead to one of the following)
• An unconditional offer (you have met all the requirements)
• A conditional offer (you need to complete qualifications to secure your place)
• Unsuccessful or withdrawn (you were unsuccessful in your application, or you or the university had to withdraw it)

Applying for financial support

Although your place at university might not be secured just yet, you still have to apply for financial support with Student Finance months in advance. This needs to done sooner rather than later.

You need to apply for:

• Student loan
• Maintenance loan (for everyday living expenses, like accommodation or travel)
• Any bursaries or other schemes you may be entitled to

The forms you need to complete can be lengthy and will require parents and guardians to provide their financial details too. This is so that Student Finance can get an idea of your financial situation, as well as the people who may be supporting you as you study. This means they can assess what loan is right for you.

Once this is completed this needs to be processed by Student Finance and they will then confirm the amount you will receive.

For more information, visit Student Finance England.

Accommodation

If you’re planning to move away or live in halls for university, you also need to find accommodation.

When looking at accommodation you need to consider the cost. What can I afford? Will my maintenance loan cover my rent? If so, will I have any money left over to spend on everyday needs?

There’s lots to consider, so don’t rush the process and ask for support from a trusted adult.

More support

If you have more questions about the process of applying to university, the UCAS website has lots of resources to help you with the application and advice on what to expect.

Otherwise, good luck!