Students are encouraged to start researching their options early.

This can include:

• Exploring different universities and institutions.
• Researching degree courses and entry requirements.
• Considering subjects and areas of interest.
• Looking at university locations and accommodation.
• Comparing different courses and universities.
• Exploring alternative higher education routes.

The College provides opportunities for students to attend higher education events, university visits, taster activities and talks from universities and other organisations.

UCAS is the main application system used for undergraduate university applications in the UK.

Students are supported through the UCAS process by their tutor and Student Support.

The process generally involves:

1. Researching options

Students research courses and universities and consider which options are right for them.

2. Preparing an application

Students complete their UCAS application, including their personal details, education history, course choices and other required information.

3. Personal statement

Students are supported in preparing their application and explaining their interests, experience, skills and reasons for applying.

4. College reference

The College provides a reference as part of the UCAS application process.

Students should speak to their tutor about the College’s arrangements and deadlines for completing their application.

5. Submitting the application

Students submit their application through UCAS, following the relevant College and UCAS deadlines.

6. Offers and decisions

Once applications have been submitted, universities and colleges consider them and may make offers.

Students receive their decisions through UCAS and are supported in understanding their options and making their decisions.

Students can access support with:

• Choosing courses and universities.
• Understanding entry requirements.
• Researching higher education options.
• Completing their UCAS application.
• Preparing their personal statement.
• Understanding offers and making decisions.
• Preparing for interviews where required.
• Understanding student finance and other practical considerations.

The College also provides higher education events, workshops, university visits and opportunities to meet representatives from universities and other organisations.

Parents and guardians can play an important role in supporting their child’s decision-making.

You can help by:

• Encouraging your child to start researching early.
• Talking about their interests, strengths and future ambitions.
• Helping them compare different courses and universities.
• Encouraging them to attend university open days and College events.
• Helping them keep track of important dates and deadlines.
• Supporting them without making the decision for them.

University choices are personal, and students should be encouraged to take ownership of their application and future plans.

University is only one possible route after sixth form.

Students may also want to consider:

• Higher and degree apprenticeships.
• Employment.
• Further training.
• Other progression routes.

Our Careers & Guidance team can help students explore the options available to them.

The College provides opportunities throughout the year for students to find out more about higher education.

These can include:

• University visits.
• Higher education fairs.
• Taster days.
• Guest speakers.
• Application workshops.
• Talks from universities and other organisations.

Students should keep an eye on College communications and speak to their tutor or Student Support to find out about upcoming opportunities.

UCAS deadlines and College deadlines can change from year to year.

For the most up-to-date information, students and parents should use the current College and UCAS information rather than relying on dates from previous academic years.

Some students may benefit from additional support when applying to highly competitive universities or courses.

The College’s High Performance Programme provides additional support for students considering competitive university and higher apprenticeship applications, including targeted support for Oxbridge and medicine candidates.

UCAS 
Explore university courses, institutions, application information and advice.

Student Finance 
Find information about funding higher education.

National Careers Service 
Explore careers and progression options.

Need help with your child’s university application?

If you or your child have questions about higher education or the UCAS process, speak to their tutor or contact Student Support.

Student Support

Telephone: 023 8043 5636

Email: awaters@itchen.ac.uk