Help your teen navigate the university selection process with confidence and clarity, says Carfax Education
For many students, heading to university marks an exciting and transformative chapter filled with new opportunities, independence, and personal growth.
But with rising tuition fees, increased competition, and an ever-evolving job market, making the right choice is more important than ever.
Today’s students need to think strategically, ensuring the skills and knowledge they gain align with real-world demands and future career pathways. Research and planning are key to maximising both educational value and long-term employability.
Despite the changing landscape, university remains a valuable investment—each additional year of study boosts wages by around 9 per cent globally (World Bank), and university graduates earn up to 58 per cent more in lifetime earnings than those with only secondary education (OECD).
But how can you ensure your child makes the right choices?
Focusing on three key stages—Choosing, Applying, and Building (C.A.B.)—can streamline the process, with research being critical at every step.
CHOOSING
Start early
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Choosing A Level or IB subjects in Year 11 lays the foundation for future university applications. Encourage your child to explore how different subject combinations align with their interests and potential degree paths.
By Year 12, students should shift their focus to investigating universities, attending open days, and defining their ambitions. Create a timeline and action plan to help your child stay on track and manage deadlines effectively.
Choosing a course
This is arguably the most critical decision. With thousands of courses offered globally, it can be overwhelming. Tools that profile a student’s strengths and interests can narrow the options to a manageable list.
Encourage your child to explore courses that include joint degrees, professional qualifications, work placements, and study abroad opportunities. Research is key to finding a course that aligns with their goals and future career prospects.
Choosing a campus
Once your child identifies their preferred courses, it’s time to select universities. Consider factors like academic reputation, course rankings, location, campus culture, and employability statistics.
Build a balanced shortlist that includes ‘reach’, ‘target’, and ‘safety’ options to ensure they receive offers. Remember that the same course can vary significantly between institutions, depending on faculty and research priorities.
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APPLYING
The application process
Application systems vary by country. In the UK, students can apply to five universities, while countries like the US allow unlimited applications.
Key elements include predicted grades, teacher references, and a personal statement. Some courses may require additional tests (e.g., UCAT for medical degrees or LNAT for law programs) or portfolios for creative fields like Architecture or Fine Art.
Interviews are common for competitive institutions such as Oxbridge.
Deadlines
Deadlines are crucial to keep in mind.
UK: In the UK, applications for Medicine, Dentistry, Veterinary Science, and all Oxbridge courses close on 15th October, while most other courses have a January deadline.
US: In the US, early decision and early action applications typically close in November, with regular decisions following in January or February.
Europe: In Europe, deadlines vary widely, often falling between January and July, depending on the country and institution. Understanding these timelines is vital for managing the process effectively.
Crafting a personal statement
A strong personal statement can have a huge impact on an application.
In the UK, this is the student’s chance to showcase their passion for the subject, academic achievements, and extracurricular activities demonstrating relevant skills.
US application essays, meanwhile, place a greater emphasis on personality and interests beyond academics. Encourage your child to reflect deeply and write authentically.
BUILDING
Building a strong profile
Your child must go beyond the basics to stand out in a competitive field. This could include:
- Reading widely on their chosen subject.
- Engaging with relevant podcasts, TED Talks, or journals.
- Taking online courses or attending summer schools.
- Gaining work experience or volunteering.
- Participating in extracurricular activities like debating, Model United Nations, or sports.
Initiatives like Extended Project Qualifications (EPQs) or essays allow students to showcase their intellectual curiosity. These efforts enhance their application and develop skills that will serve them in university and beyond.
Supporting your child
Encourage your child to take ownership of the process but remain supportive. Whether proofreading a personal statement, researching deadlines, or visiting campuses together, your involvement can make a difference.
The ultimate goal is to help them choose a course and university where they will thrive academically, socially, and personally.
Top Tips from Arcadia British School Sixth Form
- Research: Identify the country and potential universities that fit your goals.
- Dive deeper: Explore entry requirements, student life, and other key factors.
- Start early: Early preparation reduces last-minute stress.
- Visit universities: Attend open days or virtual tours to experience campus culture.
- Plan your timeline: A detailed schedule helps you stay on top of deadlines.
- Check language requirements: Ensure language proficiency tests are completed for international students.
- Prepare for tests: Practice for any required entrance exams or interviews.
- Maintain a resume: Use it as a reference for essays and keep it updated for future use.
- Monitor emails: Stay on top of updates and deadlines sent by universities.
- Remember your grades: Strong academics remain crucial for securing offers.
Arcadia British School’s Sixth Form opened in 2024. It offers a broad choice of A Levels and BTECs alongside personalised university and career guidance.
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