Beyond Sixth Form - UCAS and University Choice

University Choice

How do I find out about universities?

University websites and prospectuses are a good place to start finding out more, but by far the best way to get a feel for a university is to visit.  Before you fill in your UCAS form, visit as many universities as possible.  Look out for Open Days, Campus Tours, Taster Sessions and Master Classes.  This will give you a taste of what the university is really like and current students are often on hand to answer your questions.

Questions to answer when researching universities:

• Is it a campus or non-campus university?
• How far away from home is the university?
• Are the transport links good?
• What sort of location would you like to be in?
• For example, a country town or large city.
• Is there part-time work available? Does the university offer help in finding work?
• What is the university’s reputation like?
• League tables published by national newspapers will give you an indication of teaching quality and graduate employability.
• How many students attend the university? Is this important?
• How does the course compare with similar courses at other universities?
• What is the accommodation like?
• What are the study facilities like? For example, libraries and IT facilities.
• How good are the social and sporting facilities?