So, you have your results.
Congratulations!
Studying for a set of exams is a major task, and completing the process is a major accomplishment. After the mandatory celebration, your attention should turn to what else you can do to make your university applications successful.
In this article, we will be discussing what practical steps you can take to improve your chances now that you have your GCSEs or AS-Levels.
If you have just finished your GCSEs, it might seem premature or even scary to be talking about university.
However, your choice of what to study at university is one of the most important choices you will make in your life, and it will pay off to be prepared.
You will be up against many other students in the application process – those who start preparation earlier will be in a better position to secure that coveted place.
Getting That Extra Edge
One of the best ways to prepare is to gain a taster of what it will be like to study at university. If you do not yet know what you want to study, then summer schools in University colleges can help you make the right choice. If you do know, then a summer school can give you that extra edge in your application.
This is why Immerse runs courses for 16-18 year olds. We offer the opportunity to study one or two subjects from a choice of 15, in the university cities of Oxford and Cambridge.
Preparation and Research
You should also now be thinking about which university you will want to apply to. This requires preparation.
Websites such as the complete university guide can provide important university-specific information about factors such as reputation and student satisfaction.
In addition, all universities have information online which can help you get a feel for what they offer.
Previous students at your school may have attended specific universities, and your careers officer may be able to put you in touch with them to find out further information.
It is also important that you visit universities that interest you in order to experience its unique academic environment first-hand.
You may find that your research leads you to a long list of those universities you are considering.
However, there are a limited number of applications you can make. You may apply to five UK universities, and whilst you may be able to apply to more universities internationally, it is a good idea not to dissipate your energy on too many applications.
Narrow down
Narrowing this list down to a manageable number will require you to decide on what criteria are most important to you. The university’s reputation?
Specific societies dedicated to drama or sport? Your level of enthusiasm about the course?
There are many potential criteria, and by thinking about those most appropriate for you, it will become easier to decide which applications you should put forward.
Preparation also means taking steps to increase your chance of admission. Gaining experience and feeling comfortable in a university environment is a sure-fire way to increase your likelihood of success when it comes to applying.
This is because you will feel more comfortable at the university interview, and more knowledgeable about what university actually is.
There are many other practical steps you can take to prepare. For example, given that almost all universities require some form of a personal statement as part of the application, it is a good idea to learn how to write one.
Success means making sure that you know the best techniques for writing your personal statement – and having great things to include.
Good Preparation Is Key
Whether you have just finished GCSEs or A-levels, if you know what you want to study at university, you should start preparing for subject-specific tests such as the LNAT, BMAT, or TSA, which are required by many universities. If you are prepared, you will be more likely to thrive on these tests.
Get Help From Immerse Education
So, preparing your personal statement for subject-specific tests should be a priority. Immerse exists to empower students to achieve their full potential – and the university admissions process is our forte.
On our two-week-long summer schools, you will receive bespoke preparation for the admissions process.
This will include workshops on subject-specific tests relevant to your application and expert advice on crafting a successful personal statement.
Your learning will be consolidated by mentorship with those who have already succeeded in the university application process.
Our mentors are drawn from current undergraduates at Oxford and Cambridge. This means that you will be guided by those best placed to facilitate your university admissions success.
Focus on your University Application
However your exams went, it is wise to think about what you can do to improve your chances at securing the future that is right for you.
Your university application will involve some of the most important decisions of your life so far, which will have a significant impact on your career options.
Make sure that once you have celebrated the end of your exams, your focus turns to what you can do to give yourself the best chance of success.
