1. Visiting universities
Do this as early as possible. The longer you wait, the less hassle. Try not to fall in love with one university, keep an open mind so you're not disappointed if you don't get in- everywhere will have positive and negative aspects. Leave as early as possible for each university, take lots of photos, see as much accommodation as you can and if possible, stay the night. Trust me, a place can completely change from day to night- this is where you're going to be living, so make sure you would feel safe there!
2. Filling in the UCAS form
Start as early as possible, preferably the summer before you start visiting universities, because it's a long process. Get anyone and everyone; family, friends, teachers; to help you write your personal statement because it's important and is the only thing that differentiates you from the millions of other young people applying across the country.
3. Getting offers
Don't be disappointed if offers don't start rolling in as soon as you submit your application- be patient. Every university sends their offers at different times, and some may ask you for an interview or piece of work before they even consider giving you an offer! Don't panic- it's highly unlikely that you won't get given offers from any of your university choices!
4. Accommodation
Once you've received offers, you can go ahead and apply for accommodation for your first choice- and sometimes even your second! Try to research your choice first, and choose soon after the accommodation page opens- you don't want to miss out on your favourite as it is such an important part of life at university!
5. Results day & Clearing
Results day is terrifying. No-one can deny that every eighteen year old feels this way, as they go to collect their result, coming home with a future-deciding envelope in shaky hands. If you haven't got the grades you expect- don't worry- you may still have the grades you need to get in, and if you do, be proud that you've been accepted! It's easy to break down and feel like giving up if you don't get into your first choice or second choice but do prioritise looking at clearing. Check the list of clearing places and then start to call and email universities- the time and effort you put into this is definitely worth it- even if you are upset.
Hope this helps,
Holly
