With over 400 universities and colleges offering 35,000 courses (and counting), higher education is full of opportunities. But the move can feel daunting too. This month, we share our top tips for making the right choices as students consider their next exciting steps.
Hearts and minds
In the UK, degrees are generally highly specialised, with students spending at least three years exploring their chosen subject at great depth. That’s why we think passion plays a really important role. Whether a student is continuing with a subject they’ve enjoyed before, or pursuing a new interest, they should feel curious and inspired by what lies ahead. After all, we learn best when we’re loving learning.
That’s not to say vocational and career aspirations go out of the window. Of course, some professions (like medicine) will demand a particular course of study. It’s a careful balancing act – one that requires students to think about their long-term goals, as well as the day-to-day reality of studying their chosen subjects.
Many courses open the door to multiple opportunities. Studying the humanities or languages for example, or a course that combines various subjects, like politics, philosophy and economics. Some universities offer joint honours degrees or follow a US-inspired model of optional ‘minors’ in the first year, to help keep options open.
We recommend that students create a shortlist of possible courses and run through these questions to help evaluate each option:
• Is this a subject that I’ve enjoyed in the past, or consistently pursued in my own time?
• Am I inspired to find out more and go into greater depth on this single subject? Or would I be motivated by greater variety? Does the course offer modules that I am particularly interested in?
• Would I be happy studying this subject for three or four years? Am I interested enough to seek out extra reading or research a new angle?
• Will it help me in my chosen career, or at least keep the door open to professions that interest me? There’s a handy careers quiz on the UCAS website that can help with this one.
• Is the course structured in a way that suits my learning preferences? How much teaching time is there, versus independent work? How will I be assessed?
Students will also want to consider the reputation, location and ethos of each university offering their chosen course. But we believe subject choice is equally, if not more, important and always guide our students towards areas where they will really thrive.
Preparing for entry
With a chosen course in mind, it’s time to focus efforts on securing a place. Think about which A-level or IB subjects will be required – and which offer the greatest chance of success. Then identify and address any gaps to maximise grade potential.
Boost applications with plenty of extra-curricular activities and additional reading, beyond the school gates. Work experience placements and volunteering are also great ways to help applications stand out. Whether it’s choosing the right combination of subjects or preparing applications, starting early is always key.
How Figtree can help
We have an excellent track record supporting students on their further education journeys, with many Figtree alumni securing places at leading UK universities, including Oxford and Cambridge. We begin with an in-depth discovery, where we help students identify the right course, and the right universities, to target. We may suggest an academic assessment to identify where support is needed to secure that coveted place.
Students work with tutors and education consultants that have studied at universities of interest and in relevant fields, and who are always up to speed with the latest entrance requirements. When it comes to navigating the UCAS process, we’ll be on hand at every stage.
Our university application services include:
• Detailed discovery to build a tailored educational profile
• Strategic advice on A-level and IB subject choices
• Support with course and university selection, including arranging visits where required
• Specialist services for Oxbridge applicants – from targeted exam tuition to interview coaching
• Recommended reading and access to a network of subject matter experts to boost applications
• Guidance throughout the UCAS application process
For those hoping to study in the US, keep an eye out for our next newsletter on how to navigate the American application process.
Please get in touch with the team for more information on how we can help.
