How do you choose the best university for you?
Higher Education in the United Kingdom is recognised all round the world for its high standards of scholarship and research – 7 of the UK’s universities are ranked in the World’s Top 50 and, of course, 4 of those universities are in the World Top 10 – Oxford, Cambridge, Imperial College and University College London (UCL). Along with Oxford and Cambridge, Russell Group and other top 25 universities, British education ranks amongst the best in the world.
What types of university are there?
In all, the UK has nearly 170 universities, plus over 160 other degree-awarding institutions. Many of the smaller ones have their own unique specialisations geared to particular career paths for those students who are less interested in a traditional academic degree and are looking to develop skills for the workplace. For example, Bournemouth University is generally accepted as the market leader for film and media courses, while the Liverpool Institute of Performing Arts the brainchild of Sir Paul McCartney of the Beatles provides education and training in music, theatre, and performance design, nurturing new generations of innovative British artists.
Programmes of study vary from single subject to combined honours degrees (study of two or more separate subjects). Many offer the chance to gain professional experience through work placements with leading companies. Exchange study programmes with universities overseas are a feature of degrees which offer study of other languages and cultures.
How do I apply to university and become competitive applicant?
Regardless of where you apply to study in Higher Education, all UK students must make an application though the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS). International students may apply directly to a course provider but this choice is counted as one of the 5 permitted on UCAS.. UCAS sets two main deadlines each year - the general deadline is mid-January for students beginning study in the following autumn. The deadline for certain highly competitive courses like Medicine, Veterinary Medicine, Dentisty and for all courses at Oxford and Cambridge is three months earlier, in mid-October for courses beginning in the autumn of the following year.
It goes without saying that the competition for places at Oxford and Cambridge is very intense. Prospective students should realise that the competition for places at Russell Group and other top universities is also very demanding. Top students naturally want to apply for universities with worldwide reputations and high places in the university league table. Therefore these top institutions are usually over-subscribed.
Although gaining a place at a top UK university is very demanding, students are also asked to pay high tuition fees, and are, effectively, customers buying a service. As with any major purchase it is important that the right decision is taken.
Competition means that you must be right for the university - but the fact that you will commit time and money to university study means the university you choose to attend must also be right for you.
Where can I get advice on choosing University?
Because there is so much choice, the need to get the best expert advice when selecting courses and universities, when making an application through the UCAS system has never been more important. Talking to your parents, school academic staff and others who have been through the university application process is very useful. Education Advisers Ltd offers expert advice and guidance from consultants who are experts in the complex field of university applications, both in the UK and internationally.
Whilst the vast majority of our students get into their first choice university, Education Advisers Ltd cannot guarantee this and will work closely with students to ensure that they have the best possible opportunity of getting to where they want to go.
At Education Advisers Ltd, our consultants can give students that critical edge when applying for popular courses at competitive universities. The consultants at Education Advisers Ltd work with students from a wide range of countries and backgrounds and are completely familiar with international qualifications and educational systems.
Students usually seek help from Education Advisers Ltd about 18 months prior to their enrolment at university. However, the services offered are flexible, and students can receive help at any stage of their application. Most years we have several last-minute applications, even in July and August! Education Advisers Ltd are expert at supporting applicants to UK, US and other universities across the world. Our tailored packages allow our customers to select a bespoke pathway to meet their needs.
Please contact Fiona, our Academic Director at fiona@educationadvisers.co.uk / +44 303 003 2259 to discuss how Education Advisers Ltd can support your pathway to university.