Applying for Higher Education: A Guide for Staff Written by Kate Munday-Hoctor Written by Kate Munday-Hoctor from and Progression Federation Design by Emma Bunyard

KMPF is extremely grateful to the numerous staff members at our partner schools, the , the University for the Creative Arts, Canterbury Christ Church University and MidKent College who have supported and contributed to the development of this guide. Illustrations by Freepik contents

YOUR STUDENTS AND HIGHER EDUCATION PARTICIPATION 4

HELPING YOUR STUDENTS DECIDE THE BEST HIGHER EDUCATION ROUTES FOR THEM 5

STUDENT CONCERNS AND HOW TO ADDRESS THEM 9

PREPARING STUDENTS FOR APPLICATION TO HE 11 What to do and when to do it 11 Enabling your students to be in the best position to apply 13 Selecting the right course 14 Selecting the right university or college 16

APPLYING ONLINE: UCAS 18 Helping students to avoid common mistakes 19 When to apply 21 Personal statement 22 Writing a reference 25

AFTER SUBMISSION 27 Preparing your students for a course interview 28 Receiving and accepting offers 31 Students with no offers 33

NEXT STEPS 35 Student Accomodation 35 Student Finance 36

WHERE TO STUDY HIGHER EDUCATION IN KENT AND MEDWAY 39

GLOSSARY OF TERMS 40

FURTHER RESOURCES 42

DEADLINE CALENDAR 43

3 YOUR STUDENTS AND HIGHER EDUCATION PARTICIPATION

Many students find university or college higher education (HE) a daunting prospect, but perhaps even more so when coming from a widening participation (WP) background.

Widening participation students are under-represented in higher education because they are subject to various forms of disadvantage. WP students include:

• Students from low income backgrounds; • Some ethnic groups or subgroups; • Students from lower socio-economic groups; • Students who have been in care; • First generation HE applicants; • Disabled students; • Those from neighbourhoods with low higher education participation (POLAR3).

Traditionally, these students may not have considered HE as an option, due to a number of social, cultural, geographical and economic factors; for instance, parents’ social backgrounds and occupations, as well as the socio-economic environment in which a student is raised, are all considered to impact upon aspirations. Likewise, for disadvantaged students especially, the cost of studying can discourage HE participation, as well as the geographical location in which they live.

Lack of information concerning HE and the application process can also act as a deterrent to HE progression for students unfamiliar with the process. This is where your role in supporting students as teacher or adviser is key. Young people from families with no history of university-level education, or from groups with low HE participation rates, may not receive the same levels of support as some of their peers, or may have specific barriers to overcome. This guide aims to help you help them. It will provide information about the HE application process so that you can support your students through each step, from choosing between college and university higher education to applying for student finance.

Also included are suggestions for student activities as well as signposts to further relevant information.

“University applicants from non-traditional backgrounds do a little bit worse at every stage. They are also a little bit less likely to get through at every stage. They therefore need a little bit more support at every stage.” University Head of Admissions.

Refreshing your knowledge If the responsibility for HE application support has fallen to you, it is vital that you keep up to date with current developments. UCAS offers adviser training online and in schools and colleges. For further information visit: www.ucas.com/advisers/training

4 HELPING YOUR STUDENTS DECIDE THE BEST HIGHER EDUCATION ROUTES FOR THEM

Although HE might be right for some of your students, it may not be the best option for others. Students should explore the various routes and options available to them, making decisions about those most suitable with encouragement and guidance from you. Part of this process is deciding whether college or university HE is right for them and the type of qualification for which they would like to study when they are there.

Top tip: Offer HE exploratory sessions to all students, not just to those who have actively expressed an interest; students who may not have otherwise considered HE may be encouraged to do so as a result, so do not rule anybody out.

5 College or University?

Many students are unaware that further education colleges as well as universities offer higher education. While some may feel more suited to studying at university, college higher education may be more applicable to others. Introduce students to HE options available at both and ask them to consider the similarities and differences between them.

COLLEGE HE UNIVERSITY HE

• Both academic and vocational courses are taught. • Courses tend to be more industry specific than • Some courses offer work placements and academic. opportunities to study for a year abroad. • Most courses allow students to combine study • BA/BSc/BEng programmes usually run for three with work-based learning. years or more. • Students can opt to complete a degree level • Less flexible learning times, although students qualification in various stages, rather than can study part-time. commit to a three-year programme. • Tends to offer less contact time and more • Offers flexible learning times. independent study time. • Tends to offer more contact time and less • A wide range of courses are available at independent study time. universities nationally. • Courses are usually tailored to local priorities • Courses have specific entry requirements and work requirements in the local area. which students must meet to be accepted to • Courses usually have lower entry requirements study on a course. than those provided at universities. • Some universities offer foundation years for • For students who have missed out on marks students unable to meet entry requirements. or qualifications, colleges offer lower level Upon successful completion, students can courses which can provide pathways to HE. usually progress to a degree programme the • Students can study in a familiar environment following year. within their local area. • Students can move away from home and study • Tuition fees are usually lower than at in a new environment. universities. • Tuition fees are usually higher than those charged at colleges.

6 HE qualifications provided by colleges may include the following:

• Higher National Certificate: Study at Level 4. Can lead to Level 5 entry on an HND programme, followed by a degree top-up year. • Higher National Diploma: Study at Levels 4 & 5. Can lead to a degree top-up year, enabling students to gain a full bachelor’s degree. • Foundation degree: Study at Levels 4 & 5. Students can progress to a top-up year and gain a full bachelor’s degree. • Top-up year: Study at Level 6. Usually completed after students have gained an HND or foundation degree. This allows students to gain a full bachelor’s degree in partnership with a local university.

HE qualifications provided by universities may include the following:

• Foundation year: Not a ‘stand-alone’ qualification but an introductory course year from which students can progress to the first year of a degree upon successful completion. • Bachelor degrees: Includes Bachelor of Arts (BA), Bachelor of Science (BSc), Bachelor of Engineering (BEng) and Bachelor of Laws (BL or LBB). A degree with ‘honours’ requires students to pass a higher number of credits than an ‘ordinary’ degree and is therefore often more highly regarded. • Postgraduate study: Introduce students to postgraduate study and the option to continue study after their first degree. This can include master’s degrees, doctorates or specialist vocational programmes.

Apprenticeships

Apprenticeships can offer a hands-on alternative to a traditional, academic course. Primarily, an apprenticeship is a job, which allows apprentices to earn a paid salary while training on the job and studying at a college, university or with a training provider. The employer covers the tuition fee costs.

Higher and degree apprenticeships are offered for post Level 3 students. Higher apprenticeships provide an opportunity to gain a higher-level qualification, at Level 4, 5, 6 or 7. These can include NVQ Level 4, HNDs and foundation degrees. Alternatively, students can gain a full bachelor’s or master’s degree with a degree apprenticeship.

Higher and degree apprenticeships are competitive and students will need to search for vacancies via Apprenticeships on gov.co.uk, or Apprenticeship Kent for opportunities in Kent.

[www.gov.uk/apprenticeships-guide] [www.apprenticekent.com/home]

7 Russell Group Universities Some students may be suitable for a Russell Group university application. If so, it is important that they check any additional entry requirements and note important deadlines. Unlike the January 15th deadline for most other universities, Oxford and Cambridge require students to apply by October 15th, attend an interview and sit an entrance test.

The Russell Group University of Birmingham London School of Economics and Political Science University of Bristol University of Manchester University of Cambridge Newcastle University Cardiff University University of Nottingham Durham University University of Edinburgh Queen Mary University of London University of Exeter Queen’s University Belfast University of Glasgow University of Sheffield Imperial College London University of Southampton King’s College London University College London University of Leeds University of Warwick University of Liverpool University of York

8 For manystudents, acquiringastudentloanishugeconcernandonethatmayprevent themfrom progressing toHE. While thisis • • • • • • • • • There are scholarshipsandbursariesavailable thatdonothavetoberepaid. A studentloanwillnotaffect astudent’s credit rating. After 30years, thedebtiswipedclean, ithasnotbeenfullyrepaid. evenif £4,000,repayments willbe9%of whichequatestoaround £30 amonth–similaramounttomobilephonecontract. moneyastudentearns above£21,000. theamountof Forthis isonly9%of instance, astudentisearning £25,000peryear if theirsalarywillbeautomaticallydeductedfrom theirmonthlypay,£21,000 onlyasmallpercentage of like tax. Currently, Currently, astudentisearning below£21,000peryear, if theywillnothavetopayanythingback. When theystarttoearn over The amount studentspaybackeach monthdependsontheamounttheyare earning, notonhowmuchtheyhaveborrowed. experience overall andthesocial, extra-curricular andemploymentopportunitiesmade availableduringstudy. Ensure thatyourstudentsknowhighereducation isaboutsomuchmore thantheendqualification; itisalsoaboutthe three-year universitycourse, soencourage themtoexplore HEopportunitiesincollegesaswelluniversities. Some studentsmaywishtocomplete adegree-level qualificationinstages andnearer tohome rather thancommitting toa may dosoinanother. institutions. entry requirements Suggestthattheycompare atavarietyof therange of Course entryrequirements oneuniversityorcollege, vary;whileastudentmaynotbeabletomeettherequirements of they encourage visitstoOpenDayswhere andstudentsaboutcourserequirements theycanaskcurrent staff andexpectations. For studentswhoare potentiallyabletomeetuniversityentryrequirements butare lackingconfidenceintheiracademicability, suitable, alternative, progression routes. For somestudents, university HE maynotbeappropriate. thisisthecase, If youshouldsupportthestudentwhiletheylookfor There are regular changestostudentfinanceinformationsoensure thatyou keep uptodatewiththesevia understandable, thesituation. itisimportanttoexplain thereality of Here are somekey points: “Higher education coststoomuchandIwon’t beabletoafford it.” STUDENT CONCERNS AND HOW TO ADDRESSTHEM “I’m notcleverenoughtogouniversity.” “Higher education justisn’tforme.” www.gov.uk/student-finance. 9

STUDENT CONCERNS AND HOW TO ADDRESS THEM STUDENT CONCERNS AND HOW TO ADDRESS THEM “There isn’tanypointgoingtouniversitybecauseemployersnowlookforworkexperience“There andskills, • • • • • • “I’m goingtoapplyalocaluniversityorcollege, becausemyfamilycan’treally afford tovisitallof Some students may feel as if theyneedtoleave educationsothattheycanbegintofinanciallysupportthemselves,Some studentsmayfeelasif orthatwork institutions directly forfurtherinformation, orvisitUCAS Virtual Tours forlinks toonlinecampustours. institutions offer financialsupportforlow-incomefamilieswishingtovisitandsome publishonlinevirtualtours. Contact Students shouldbeencouraged toconsideruniversitiesnationwideandnotlimitthemselves towhatisonoffer locally. Many term-time breaks. careers services. incomeandtheirworkexperienceThese whilststudyingorduring willallowstudentstoincrease theirlevelof Introduce employment opportunitiesavailableatuniversitiesandcollegesornear campus, usuallyadvertisedbyon-campus with lowfamilyincomes. thefinancialsupportavailabletothemduringstudy;e.g.Ensure students are aware of amaintenanceloanorbursaryforthose thecourse,of although thismightbeunpaid. Ask studentstoconsidercoursesproviding workplacementsorasandwichyear inindustry. These offer workexperience aspart tuition fees. However, apprenticeship placesare competitive andlimited. apprenticeships. These are agreat waytogainindustry-specific experience whilegenerating anincomeandnothavingtopay Advise studentstolookintoHEoptionsthatmayallowthemstudywhileworking andearning asalary;e.g. higheranddegree also needguidanceconcerninghowthey cansupporttheirchildthroughout theapplication process. Your schoolshouldprovide parents andcarers withrelevant informationconcerninghighereducationanditsbenefits. They may Some parents mightnothaveaccessed highereducationthemselvesandthus maybeunfamiliarwiththeopportunitiesitoffers. “Ineedtoearn somemoneybefore signingupforadegree, sothat Icansupportmyself.” experience isnowmore highlyvaluedthanacademicqualifications. Here’s howtoaddress theseconcerns: “My parents don’twantmetogouniversity;theysayit’s notworthwhile.” rather thanahigher-level qualification.” the otheronesI’minterested in.” 10

YR 7, YR 8, YR 9 YR 10 YR 11 • • • • • • • • • • subject-specific events that students can sign up to free of charge.subject-specific eventsthatstudents can signuptofree of in whichtheyare interested. Universitiesandcolleges runcareers fairsand Encourage studentstoexplore anylocaleventsrelated tothesubjectorcareer Organise adayvisitforyourstudentstolocaluniversity orcollege. will helpthemtomake informeddecisionsaboutsubjectchoicesnow. as welltheirentryrequirements. KnowingwhattheywanttodoatHElevel Advise studentstoconsidertheHEcoursesinwhichtheymaybeinterested, sixth formsandcolleges. Now isthetimeforstudentstoconsiderwhatdonext andvisitpotential atwww.gov.ukwill supporttheirHEapplication(search ‘Volunteer’ ). Encourage studentstolookintorelevant workorvoluntaryexperience that Introduce highereducationoptionsavailableatcollegesanduniversities. do inthefuture. Advise studentstostartthinkingmore seriouslyaboutwhattheywouldlike to education. advice aboutkeeping doorsopenshouldtheywishtoapplyforhigher Guidance provided tostudentsabouttheirsubjectchoicesshouldinclude related HEcourses(www.ucas.comrequirements of ). which career area theyare interested in, helpthemtofindoutabouttheGCSE Offer guidanceforstudentschoosingGCSEoptions. somealready know If otherwise notconsider, e.g. thecreative arts. subjects theyhaveavailable. subjectswhichstudentsmay Raise awareness of universities andcollegestoyourschoolpresent onthewiderange of Encourage early engagementandinterest inhighereducation. Invite PREPARING STUDENTS FOR APPLICATION TO HE WHAT TO DO AND WHEN TO DOIT 11 www.opendays.com www.unitasterdays.com about post-16education. Group guidetomakingdecisions access ‘InformedChoices’:aRussell Visit www.russellgroup.ac.uk to www.ukcoursefinder.com UK Course Finder: www.ucas.com/students/coursesearch UCAS coursesearch facility: to them:www.prospects.co.uk Information oncareers androutes www.education.gov.uk (Department forEducation). Visit: to chooseyourkey stage4options’ WayDownload ‘Which Now?How colleges. open daysat localuniversities and out aboutactivities, eventsand Visit www.unitasterdays.com tofind

PREPARING STUDENTS FOR APPLICATION TO HE PREPARING STUDENTS FOR APPLICATION TO HE YR 12 YR 13 • • • • • • • • • Ensure that your school makes the most of opportunities onofferEnsure thatyourschoolmakes forschoolsand students themostof atlocaluniversitiesandcolleges. Contact universityandcollege outreach departmentsto • • • • • • • (local universitiesmaybeabletohelp withthis). Offer aparent andcarer informationeveningaboutthestudentfinanceapplication process Guide studentswithstudentfinanceandaccommodationapplications. institutions. Encourage studentstoattend collegeoruniversityvisitdaysoffered bytheirchosen their choseninstitution. Offer studentspractice calledtointerviewby interviewssothattheyare wellprepared if results are notasexpected. Inform studentsaboutExtra, Clearing and Adjustment in casetheirexam orqualification additional informationorinterviews. Students shouldmonitortheirapplicationsonlineandrespond tooffers andrequests for toprovide requiredgive timeforstaff references before applicationdeadlines. Your schoolorcollege should setaninternaldeadline forstudents toworktowards. This will anyimportantdeadlines; UCAS keyEncourage students tobeaware offers dates. of alistof Remind them tokeep theirusernameand password safe. Students will needtoregister andbeginworkingontheirUCAS applicationsearly thisyear. Organise a parent andcarer informationevening abouttheHEapplicationprocess. and beginworkingontheirpersonalstatement. interest intheirsubject Students will needtoensure thattheyhaveenoughevidenceof this asarequirement. Encourage students tosignupforvoluntaryorworkexperience. Somecoursesmayspecify independently orwiththeirfamilies. Students should beginvisitingOpenDays, UCAS fairs, orotherHE-related events requirements. interest andtheirentry Support studentswhenidentifyingcoursesandinstitutionsof Familiarise themwiththeUCAS applicationprocess. Students will needtostartpreparing forhighereducation. Students should workontheirpersonalstatement draft duringthesummer break whilealsofurtherdevelopingtheirsubjectinterest. find outaboutwhat isonoffer. Top tip... 12

www.gov.uk/student-finance soon astheystartreceiving the better, as HE providers begin allocatingplacesas submit theirapplication open daydirectory.) university andcollege www.opendays.com (a carers toinformation provide this, ensure evenings aboutthe The soonerstudents school isunableto carers are aware of carers are aware of Invite parents and www.ucas.com Important note… higher education providers locally. that parents and those offered by process. your If HE application applications. 13 www.ucas.com UCAS theapplicationprocess. offers adviceconcerningallaspectsof However, informationincludedcanbeoverwhelming theamountof Many of theseeventsare free andHEinstitutionsoftenMany of meetaccommodation, foodandtravel costs. Students shouldapplyonlinevia Part makingHEfeelaccessible toyourstudents istooffer theminsightintowhatto expect. of Universitiesandcollegesoffer arange Find outaboutanytastersessions, summerschoolsandopendaysoffered atHEinstitutionsnationwide. These willenablestudents Taking partinasubject-related summerschoolortastereventmayalsoprovide studentswithideas forpersonalstatementcontent. These will introduce students to the variety of optionsopentothem.These willintroduce studentstothevarietyof Helpstudentstofindoutaboutthosenearby ororganise your to experience auniversityorcollegecampusandprovide andstudentsfirst-hand. themwiththeopportunitytospeak withstaff presentation tostudentsandparents oroffer studentsupportfortheUCAS applicationprocess. Contact universityandcollege of activities,of events andtastersessions forschools, studentsandparents. Somemaybehappytovisityourschoolandoffer a so supportstudentswhiletheyexplore itscontentforthefirst time, showingthemwhere andhowtofind keyinformation. Make the most of highereducationeventsandactivitieswithinthelocalareaMake themostof ENABLING YOUR STUDENTS TO BEIN THE BEST POSITION TO APPLY Encourage students to make the most of HEeventsnationwide Encourage studentstomake themostof Encourage studentstoattend careers andUCAS fairs Introduce studentstotheUCAS website www.opendays.com www.unitasterdays.com outreach departmentstofindoutmore. Open dayandtasterresearch links: own HEorcareers fairatschool. university orcollegewebsites. 13

PREPARING STUDENTS FOR APPLICATION TO HE PREPARING STUDENTS FOR APPLICATION TO HE Before beginningtheapplicationprocess online, studentsneedtohaveresearched andselected thecoursethattheyfeelwillberight for them. While theymayaskforyouradviceduringthisprocess, itisimportantthatthechoicetheymake istheirowndecision and Ensure that yourschoolprovides informationforparents andcarers supportingtheirchild’s applicationtoHE. Itmaybedifficult for • • Some studentsmayfinditdifficult toidentifyacoursethatisrightforthem; organise someinformal group sessions inwhich‘HE interpreting theonline informationprovided. Userscanoptforinformationtoberead aloudintheirpreferred language, andto 4. 3. 2. 1. Course research sessions canbe structured around thefollowingstep-by-step process: parents to support their child through the application process if they have little knowledge of itthemselves,parents theyhavelittle tosupport theirchildthrough theapplicationprocess knowledgeof sooffer if aparent UCAS offers a‘Browse Aloud’ serviceforuserswhodonotspeak Englishasafirstlanguageandmaytherefore havedifficulty the localarea canbeaccessed usingwww.gov.uk, andbysearching ‘Volunteer’. Suggest workorvoluntaryexperience forstudentsinterested inavocationalcourse. Further informationonvoluntaryworkin explore theirsubjectfurther. interest etc.places oreventsof particularinterest. recording anythingof Provide related resources thattheycanuseto alistof that thisgoesfarbeyondtheclassroom. Suggestthattheyread widelyaround theirsubject, listentopodcasts, visitrelevant Within theirHEapplication, studentswillneedtoevidencetheirinterest inthesubjecttowhichtheyare applyingandshow course contentat varying institutions. Find outwhichHEproviders offer thiscourseand thedifferences between specificinterest toyou. Narrow downthecourse/sof Research andrecord the variousHEcoursesrelated tothissubjectarea. Identify thesubjects/topicsyoufind mostinteresting. Universities andcollegesalsooffer parent information evenings, socontactthemforfurtherinformation. course research’ cantake placeinasupportiveenvironment. Support subject-interest development information eveningatyourschoolorcollege. simplify or magnify online content if needed.simplify ormagnifyonlinecontentif that itsuitstheirownstrengths andinterests. SELECTING THE RIGHT COURSE Provide parent information Top tip: 14

students theimportance However, highlightto one ormore sessions. might take placeover research outside of research outsideof of continuingtheir of These activities the classroom. them tocompare differences betweencoursemodulesoffered, teaching andlearning practices usedaswellassessment methods Offer guidanceconcerningthecourseentryrequirements astudentisabletomeet. You willneedtogetthebalancerightbetween Students will probably need help in understanding the varying content of similarcoursesdelivered atdifferentStudents will probably needhelpinunderstandingthevaryingcontentof institutions. Advise and entryrequirements (universityandcollegewebsitesprovide thisinformation). They mightalsowishtocheckwhetheracourse Produce aworksheet interest, where studentscanrecord coursesof theirentryrequirements andtheinstitutionsrunningthem. Some studentsmayneedhelpunderstandingentryrequirements andtheUCAS system;www.ucas.com tariff provides further being realistic aboutwhethertheycanmeettherequirements andencouraging themtopursuewhat theyreally wanttodo.

(www.prospects.ac.uk) For career inspiration andprogression students inneedof route advice, useICould (www.icould.com) orProspects Offers suggestionsforcoursesbasedonaquestionnaire studentsare asked tocomplete:www.ukcoursefinder.com UK Course Finder requirements andpredicted grades. www.university.which.co.uk/courses allowsuserstobrowse coursesbysubjectcategory, orfiltercoursesusing entry Which? University and fees. courses,University andcollegewebsitesprovide detailsof includinginformationaboutcontent, entryrequirements University andcollegeonlinewebsites requirements andfees. Visit: www.ucas.com The UCAS search toolallowsuserstosearch forcoursesonline, andaccess informationconcerningcourse entry UCAS This willensure studentshavethenecessary information athandwhentheyapplyonline. offers a work placement or time abroad if thisissomethinginwhichtheyareoffers interested. aworkplacementortimeabroad if Resources forcourseresearch Entry requirements information onboth. Course content Top tip: 15

PREPARING STUDENTS FOR APPLICATION TO HE PREPARING STUDENTS FOR APPLICATION TO HE Once studentshaveidentifiedthecoursetheywouldlike tostudy, theywillneedtoidentifytheinstitutionsrunningthatcourseusing offer financialassistance. Arrange they visitstolocaluniversitiesoffer students theopportunityto experience auniversitycampusif Some HEinstitutionsoffer onlinevirtualtours. theyare havingdifficulty Encourage studentstoaccess attending theseif OpenDays. Open daysshouldbeattended theircourseanduniversityorcollegeresearch. theyear before astudentappliesandaspartof This Visiting universitiesfarfrom homemaybefinanciallyprohibitive forsomestudents. so, If itisworthfinding outwhichinstitutions • • • • • UCAS. Havingdoneso, askthemtoconsiderdifferences betweenentryrequirements andcoursecontentaswelltheirpersonal Subject specialism:Whichuniversitieshavethebestsubjectdepartmentratings? universities orcollegesoffer this? Study abroad orworkexperience: so, Isthestudentinterested in studyingabroad orgainingworkexperience? If which Tuition fees:Tuition feescanvarybetweencoursesandproviders soadvisestudentstomake acomparison. theirown.) care andthosewithcaringresponsibilities of with experience of offered? (This mayincludedisabilityservices, supportforadditionallearning requirements andsupporttailored forstudents interests theymight have?Doesthestudenthaveanyadditionallearning requirements and, so, supportis if whatkindof Facilities, extra-curricular activitiesandstudentsupportservices:Howmighttheinstitutionanyextra-curricular Location: Dotheywanttostudyathomeoraway? 4. 3. 2. 1. University orcollegeresearch sessions canbestructured around thefollowingstep-by-stepprocess which Identify therelevant OpenDaysandattend asmanypossible. Shortlist yourpreferred coursesandinstitutions. ithasthefacilitiesorsupportservices yourequire.located near tohomeorfurtherawayif Identify thecoursesandinstitutionswhichsuityourindividualpriorities, e.g. whetherthe institutionis and suitablecoursecontent. Identify theuniversitiesorcollegesrunningyourchosencoursewithrealistic entryrequirements will enablethemtoexplore whattheinstitutionanditslocalarea havetooffer. SELECTING THE RIGHT UNIVERSITY ORCOLLEGE Students may wishtoconsiderthefollowing: cannot visitthosetowhichtheywish apply. you canshare with yourstudents: Open Days requirements. 16 Visit www.unistats.com • • • • • University andcollegeOpenDaydirectory: www.opendays.com www.ucas.com UCAS Virtual Tours: This onlineresource enablesstudentstoaccess links touniversityandcollegevirtualonlinetours. Times Higher Education:World UniversityRankings: Ranks universitiesworldwide. www.timeshighereducation.com www.unistats.com rank incomparison tooneanother, infactorssuchasstudentsatisfaction, subjectspecialtyandaccommodation. Unistats: The official websiteforcomparing dataoncoursesanduniversities. Students canseehowcollegesanduniversities College anduniversityonlinewebsites:Provide courseinformationandinsightintostudentlife oncampus. Ensure studentsare aware that, aninstitutionishighlyranked, evenif itmaynotberightfor them. League tablesshould Ensure that studentsselectcourseswithvaryingentryrequirements incasetheyexceed ordonotmeet theirexpected Resources forcollegeoruniversityresearch form only part of theirresearch. form onlypartof exam orqualification results. Important note… Top tip: 17

PREPARING STUDENTS FOR APPLICATION TO HE APPLYING ONLINE: UCAS • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Those applyingforanOpenUniversitycoursewill needtoapplydirect totheOpenUniversityatwww.open.ac.uk . Students applyingforpart-timestudyusuallyneedtoapplytheinstitutiondirectly. so,If theywillneedtoregister andapplyusingUCAS Conservatoires (www.ucas.com ). When applyingforperformance-basedcourses, studentsneedtocheckwhethertheirinstitutionislistedasaUK Conservatoire. Students theirusernameandpassword. need toregister andtake noteof institutions, requests foradditionalinformationandcallstointerview. After submission, theyare theirapplicationviaUCAS abletochecktheprogress of Track. Track displaysoffers madeby students canapplyforuptofivedifferent courses. Most HEapplicationsare completed onlineviatheUniversityandCollege Admissions Service(www.ucas.com). Usingoneform, A reference from theirschoolorcollege. A personalstatement; Employment details; The qualifications theyhaveandare currently taking; theschoolsandcollegestheyhavepreviously attended; Details of theinstitutionsproviding them; uptofivecoursestheywantapplyforandthenamesof Details of Their personal details; Their school orcollege‘buzzword’ (provided whenyour schoolorcollegeregistered withUCAS); APPLYING ONLINE:UCAS UCAS willaskstudentsfor: UCAS IN A NUTSHELL Exceptions totherule 18

Higher-level acourse. qualificationsdonotoverruletheneedforGCSE requirements of Students shouldincludeGCSE results and The UCAS formasks applicantstoidentifyanyunspentcriminalconvictions. Itisimportantthatstudentsanswercorrectly, asthere can If astudentdoeshaveanunspent conviction,If thismaynotprevent themfrom securingaplaceontheirchosencourse;theymaybe which iswhich. tuitionfeeastudentpayspartlydependsonwhetherornothe/sheisUK Nationalitisimportant As the amountof be implicationsotherwise. UCAS offers explanatory notes defininganunspentcriminalconviction. studentsare stillunsure, If they So thattheirapplicationisnotsentto thewrong institution, thecoursesand students shoulddouble-checkthenamesandtitlesof The UCAS formasks studentsfortheirnationalidentityandethnicorigin. Somefindthisconfusing, soensure yourstudentsknow Students will need to provide evidence of entryrequirementStudents qualifications. will needtoprovide theydonothavethem, evidenceof If theyshouldallowupto12 Advise studentstodouble-checkthattheyhavecorrectly identifiedthequalificationstheyhaveor are currently taking. asked toclarifytheirpositionfurtherassess whetherithasanybearing ontheirapplication. retakes whenlistingqualifications andmayneedto retake anythattheyare missing. HELPING STUDENTS TO AVOID COMMON MISTAKES weeks when re-ordering copiesfrom theappropriate examining board. should clarifytheirsituationwithlocalpolicestation. Incorrect college, universityand course names institutions towhichtheyare applying. Missing exam certificates Nationality vs. ethnicity Incorrect qualifications Criminal convictions to getthisright. 19

APPLYING ONLINE: UCAS APPLYING ONLINE: UCAS Students should ensure thecontactdetailstheyprovide whenregistering forUCAS are correct andup-to-dateatalltimes. Universities Students willneedtosendanyadditionalitemsrequested byacollegeoruniversityusingRecorded DeliverywhenusingRoyal Mail. longer thanIwasexpecting. Ialsowould haveliked more helpinhowtochoose Spelling, grammar andpunctuationerrors canmake anapplicationappear sloppy. Ensure studentsproofread theirapplicationsand Ask studentstodouble-checkthattheyhavesubmitted theirapplicationonceitiscomplete. Clickingthewrong button couldmean arrange this theyear before applying. itistoolate, If theyshouldtrytoorganise thisassoonpossible, thenmentionitintheir college place. Before writingareference membershouldengagewiththestudentandbefamiliarallelementsof thestaff Some courseswillrequire applicantstohaveobtainedrelevant workexperience before thecoursestart date. Helpstudentsto and collegesmaywishtocontactthemdirectly andUCAS sendsalertsregarding anychanges totheirapplicationviaemail. “I found some parts of theUCAS formveryconfusing,“I foundsomepartsof anditalltook much Contradictions betweenapersonalstatement andareference provided maycauseastudenttomiss outonauniversity or Where possible, advisestudentstoscanandsenddocumentselectronically. missing deadlines andlosingoutonauniversityorcollegeplace. Application formsshouldbefullycompletebefore submitting. Personal statementandreference contradictions ask otherstocheckthembefore submission. between theoffers Igot.” Spelling, grammar andpunctuation Clicking ‘Save’ instead of ‘Submit’ Clicking ‘Save’instead of Incorrect contact details Lost supportingitems personal statement. Work experience their application. Year 13Student 20 • • • • • • • • • • • support wouldbeavailabletothem. entry application. They shouldbeadvisedthatapplyingfordeferred entrywhilestillatschoolorcollegemeans agreater levelof Some maywishtowaituntiltheirgap year andthenapplyforimmediate entrythesameyear, rather thancomplete adeferred Advise studentstoensure thattheinstitutionwillstillberunningtheirchosencourse thefollowingyear. application fordeferred entry, assomemaynotbe. applyingfordeferred entry,If students shouldcontacttheirselectedinstitutionstocheckwhethertheyare happytoreceive an The sameUCAS deadlines applytothosewishingtake agapyear andapplyforauniversityorcollegeplacethefollowingyear. them. Students willputthemselvesinabetter positionwhensubmit The earlier applicationsare submitted thebetter; universitiesandcollegesstartallocatingplacesassoon theybegintoreceive applications andprovide references ingoodtime. students toworktowards, timebefore theofficial deadline. allowingplentyof areThis willmean abletocheckover thatstaff theUCAS deadline.Applications needtobestartedwellinadvanceof Your schoolorcollegeshouldsetitsowndeadline for keyUCAS datesonline. provides alistof checked viatheirwebsite:www.open.ac.uk The Open Universityhasmore thanone deadline duringtheyear, dependingonthecourse. Individualcoursedetailscanbe information. Deadlines for applicationstoUK Conservatoires vary;suggestthatstudentscheckUCAS andconservatoire websitesforfurther application deadline isOCTOBER 15–muchearlier than formostotherundergraduate courses. applyingformedicine,If dentistryorveterinarycourses , Oxford orCambridge ortotheUniversitiesof , the institutions. students wanttoapplyafter thisdate, If suggestthattheycontacttheinstitutionasitmayallowalateapplication. The official deadline formostundergraduate coursesfallsonJANUARY15, althoughthiscanvarybetweencoursesand Deferred entryapplications Things you shouldknow… WHEN TOAPPLY 21 ting before thedeadline.

APPLYING ONLINE: UCAS APPLYING ONLINE: UCAS for all of theirselectedcourses,They canonly submitonestatementforallof them. so theywillneedtomake sure itisapplicabletoallof As An Admissions Tutor/Officer staff. whoisusuallyanacademicmemberof This personwillprobably specialiseinthesubjectforwhich such, theirotherchoicesdonotcallitbythesame advisethattheydonotspecificallynamethecourse towhichtheyare applyingif Students theonlineapplicationprocess. are required tocompleteapersonalstatementaspartof This isanimportantelementand the studentisapplying. The Admissions Officer judgeswhetherthestudentissuitableforcourse–ajudgementbased ontheir Primarily, thestatementshouldevidenceastudent’s strong interest inthesubjectforwhichtheyare applying, whilealsoshowing A statement of aroundA 4,000characters (roughly 500words), statementof showingan Admissions Officer howthestudentissuitablefortheir that they will get the most out of theircourseand theirtimespentinhighereducation.that theywillgetthemostoutof As such, astudentshouldincludethe name, norshouldtheyrefer theseare toanymodulesoffered notrunbyeverycourse. if personal statement, exam/qualification results andthe reference provided. course andwhytheyshouldbechosenoverothercandidates. What shouldstudentsinclude? where they shouldspendmosttime. following withintheirstatement: PERSONAL STATEMENT Who reads it? What isit? 22 • • • • • •

“If Iwasafootballmanager putting togetherateam,“If what Iwouldwant is peoplewhoare really good at “The people whoassess“The applications are human. Don’tirritate thembymakinghave tohuntfor have helpedthemtodeveloptransferable skillsthatwillassist them insomewayatuniversityorcollege. However, thisshouldbekept toaminimum, and theyshouldexplain howtheseare eitherrelevant tothecoursesubjector applicableinsomewaytothecourseforwhichtheyare applying,If studentsmaywishtodiscuss extra-curricular interests. specific topicthestudentwouldlike to explore further? Did abook, journalorpodcasttellthemsomethingaboutthe subjectthattheydid notknowalready? Diditintroduce a attended whichrelates totheirchosensubject insomeway. thesethings.They shouldanalyseandreflect upon oneortwoof Students may wishtodiscuss aparticularbook, artwork, pieceof documentary, landmarkorperhapsalecture they have classroom. specific rather than general discussion andforevidence toshowthatthestudent’s subjectinterest reaches farbeyondthe Evidence thepersonalstatement. forsubjectinterest shouldcomprisethe greater partof Admissions tutorsare lookingfor if theyare applyingforavocationalcourse.if Students maywishtomentionlong-termcareer plansandhowtheirchosencoursefitsintothem. This isespeciallyimportant experience asanentryrequirement. Discussing andreflecting uponworkorvoluntary experience is importantforthoseapplyingacoursewithwork their chosensubjectordiscuss anytransferrable skillsit hashelpedthemtodevelop. Like hobbiesandinterests, discussing anyworkorvoluntaryexperience, if studentswillneedtoshowhowthisisrelevant to playing football. theyare alsoreallyWhy should Ibeinterested goodat if otherthings?” “It’s notsomuchaboutwhat youcando, what aswhat youdo.” youmake of relevant bits of information withinthepersonalstatement” relevant bitsof 3. Relevant workorvoluntaryexperience 2. Relevant hobbiesandinterests 1. Evidence forsubjectinterest University Progression Manager University Head of University HeadAdmissions of University Head of University HeadAdmissions of 4. Future career plans 23

APPLYING ONLINE: UCAS APPLYING ONLINE: UCAS • • • • • • Provide personal statementfeedbackand, possible, if one-to-onemeetingswithstudents. Help studentstowriteandstructure theirstatementwithaworksheet thatbreaks downitscomponentparts. institutions. Organise personal statementworkshops in-schoolpersonalstatementwritingsessions offered ormake themostof bylocalHE give apresentation onthisinclass. homeworkaskingstudents tofurtherresearch theirchosensubject. aninterestingSet apieceof aspectof Perhaps theycould See www.unitasterdays.com orcontactuniversityandcollegeoutreach departmentsdirectly. Arrange visitstolocaluniversitysubject-tastersessions, oraskwhethertheuniversitywillgiveapresentation atyourschool. explore. Encourage studentstodeveloptheirsubjectinterest further;e.g. subject-related resources provide thattheycan alistof Use formalrather thaninformallanguage. Make sure yourstatementiswellstructured; includeashortintroduction andconclusion. Redraft yourstatementuntilyouare happyandaskotherstocheckit over. Specifically nameanybooks, writers, podcastsetc. to whichyouare referring. college interview. Do notwriteanythinginyourstatementthatyouwouldbeabletotalkconfide Type thestatementintoaseparate documentandonlypasteitintotheUCAS formonceitiscompletelyfinished. Do notplagiariseexcerpts from otherpeople’s statements;UCAS usesanelectronic systemthatwillflagthisup. Avoid blandstatements. Think carefully aboutwhysomethingisinteresting rather thanjuststatingthatitis. e.g. ‘IhavewantedtostudythissubjectsinceIwasachild’. butwithoutlyingorexaggeratingSubject interest andavoidclichés needs tocomethrough inagenuineway;sellyourself linked backtoyourchosensubjectinsomeway. thepersonalstatementandbe outsideinterests andworkexperience shouldformonlyasmallpartof Descriptions of achievements. Do notlistqualificationsastheyare mentionedelsewhere ontheform. However, dohighlightparticularacademic Make sure thepersonalstatementisspecific butapplicabletoalluniversitiesorcolleges towhichyouare applying. What else can staff dotohelp? What elsecanstaff Tips tobe given tostudents 24

ntly about if attending auniversityor ntly aboutif The value of areference youwritecannotbeunderestimated.The valueof Itcanmake thedifference betweenastudentgainingplaceontheir selected courseornot. The bestandmosthelpfulreferences are bespoke; youshouldavoidusingthesamestockphrases inallthe • • • • • • • • • • Ensure that you are familiar with all aspects of astudent’sEnsure applicationandtheirreasons that youare familiarwithallaspectsof forselectingtheirchosencoursesand references beingmadeanoffer. youwritebecauseinstitutionsmaynoticethisanditcanadverselyaffect students’chancesof The reference shouldbehonestbuttrytoavoidnegativecomments. want themtosee. Under theDataProtection Act, applicantsare references permitted sodonot writeanythingyouwouldnot torequest copiesof thestudent’s choices.not applicabletoallof The studentmayhaveappliedforuptofivecourses. theyare The reference shouldnotnameindividual institutions orcoursesif When youaddyourreference totheonlineapplication, click‘Save’regularly, inactivity. asitwilltimeoutafter 35minutesof Your reference shouldbearound 4,000characters, or47lines. Schools andcollegescanaccess studentapplicationsanduploadreferences whensigningintoUCAS Adviser Track. www.university.which.co.uk includessubject-specificpersonalstatementadvice. access online activitiesandworksheets. www.ucas.com provides advice concerninghowtostructure andwhattoincludeinapersonalstatement. Students canalso examples. www.purepotential.org includespersonalstatementadviceandanonlinelibrary withover100annotatedpersonalstatement interested inapplying toHE. Personal statementwritingactivitiesare alsoincluded. Available atwww.kmpf.org. Me andaDegree … Applying forHigherEducation: A Step-by-Step Guideoffers information, adviceandguidanceforstudents “As areferee, you’re aimingtogiveuniversitiesandcollegesaninformedacademic assessment anapplicant’s suitabilityforfurtherstudy.” of institutions before writingyourreference. Things youshouldknow… WRITING AREFERENCE Useful resources UCAS 25

APPLYING ONLINE: UCAS APPLYING ONLINE: UCAS • • • • • • • • • Include thestudent’s predicted grades, applicable. if Include specific rather thangeneral informationproviding concrete examples where possible; theinformationstudenthasprovided intheirapplication,Avoid repeating anyof unless youwanttocommentonit; disabilities); Any factorsorpersonalcircumstances thatmightaffect their performance(consentmustbegainedbefore mentioninghealth or Any commitments(like January AS assessments) thatmightprevent interviewattendance onaparticularday; Achievements, workexperience andextracurricular activitiesthatrelate totheirchosencourse(s); Skills andqualitieslike aptitudeandenthusiasmcurrent orpastachievements thatwillhelpwiththeirchosensubjectarea; Why theyare suited totheirchosensubjectandcareer pathplustheirattitude, motivationandcommitment; the studentwhere it isrelevant andaddssomethingpositive); Students’ post-16 academicperformanceandtheirpotentialforsuccess inhighereducation(includestatisticalinformationon • • university, quotingtheapplicant’s personalID. before completingafullonenext spring. You willneedtosendanylaterreferences direct tothecollegeor them longenoughtobeableprovide afullreference. so, If explain thatyouare providing atemporary reference thestudentisonan AccessIf course, foundationcourseoranotherone-year course, youmaynothaveknown college admissions departmentsmayalsooffer supportandguidance. For furtherdetailedguidanceonproviding areference, visitwww.ucas.com orcontactUCAS directly. Universityand We trytoread betweenthelines. Itisoften what isnotsaidinareference that causesustocalla “References are asimportantforwhat theydon’tsayaswhat theydosay. student for interview if weare undecidedabout offering themaplace.”student forinterviewif What toinclude, according toUCAS: Senior UniversityLecturer

Important notes… 26

Once studentshavecompletedtheironlineapplications, UCAS willprocess thembefore sendingthemontotheirchoseninstitutions. • • • • • • • Contact detailsshouldbekept up-to-dateviaUCAS Track sothatuniversitiesandcolleges cancontactstudentsdirectly. theydidnotnominatesomebody whenfirstcompletingtheirapplicati If necessary (e.g. if theirapplicationandmake ateacherto keep orparent). decisionsontheirbehalf track of astudentisgoingawayorwill notbeabletomonitortheironlineaccountforsome reason,If theyshouldnominatesomebody (although theyshouldtrytogoatthesuggestedtimeanddate). Respond to interviewinvitationsvia Track. Here theycan‘accept’ or‘decline’ theinvitationorasktochangedatetime universities andcolleges. Regularly monitor theiraccountusingUCAS Track, checkingforrequests foradditionalinformationorcalls tointerviewfrom contact the institution if theyare havingdifficulty doingso.contact theinstitutionif Provide required (e.g. additionalinformationif work). areference orpieceof They shouldprovide theseassoonpossible or status here. Regularly check theemailaccountwithwhichtheyregistered, asUCAS willsendanyupdatesandchangestotheirapplication While waitingtohear whethertheyhavesecured aplace, yourstudentswillneedtodothefollowing: AFTER SUBMISSION Nominate somebodytoactontheirbehalf Ensure contact detailsremain up-to-date Monitor theirapplication 27

on, theyshouldcallUCAS tosetthisup.

AFTER SUBMISSION AFTER SUBMISSION Offer practice interviews Advise studentstorefresh theirknowledgeabouttheinstitutionandcoursetowhichtheyare applying Suggest thattheyresearch intocurrent issues relating tothecoursesubject theirapplication Check thattheycandiscuss allaspectsof Suggest theyfamiliarisethemselveswithwhatwillberequired ontheday • • • • • • • interviewed inanunfamiliarenvironment byanunfamiliarpersonwillhelp toprepare studentsforthereal thing. Set upareciprocal arrangement withanotherlocalschoolorcollegetodopractice interviewsforeach other’s students. Being come intotheschoolforthispurpose. that theycanquestionthemaboutit. youhavelinks withalocaluniversityorcollege, If to youmaybeabletoarrange forstaff Arr over itscontentandassessment methods. The interviewerwillwanttoseethatthestudenthasagoodidea aboutwhatwillberequired onthecoursesotheyshouldlook They canmentionthisduringinterviewtoshowthattheyare takinganactiveinterest inthesubject. They should revise anybooks, discussion included intheirpersonalstatement. theoriesandtopicsof have submitted. Students theirapplication, should re-read allaspectsof ensuringthattheycandiscuss each partandanyadditional workthey time? For instance, prepare foranauditionornumeracy andliteracy test, work? orprovide aportfolioof Advise studentstoread anyinformationsenttothembytheinstitutionbeforehand. Dotheyneedtoprepare anythingahead of After submission, someuniversitiesorcollegesmayrequire studentstoattend aninterviewbefore offering themaplace. ange somepractice interviews. thesubjectstudentwantstostudyso The interviewerwillpreferably haveknowledgeof PREPARING YOUR STUDENTS FOR A COURSE INTERVIEW Help toprepare yourstudents: 28 The interviewerwillbechecking: Plan yourjourneyanddon’tbelate! Suggest thatstudentschecktoseewhetherthere isadress code Work withyourstudentsonhowtogobeyond“yes”and“no”answers theirown Encourage students toprepare somequestions of • • • • • • • • • • • • Anything elsethatthestudentmight contribute totheuniversityorcollege. That theyare motivated, enthusiasticandeager tolearn; their application; That theycantalkopenlyandwidelyaboutanydetailof That theyare genuinelypassionate abouttheirsubject; That thestudentmatchespersoninhisorherapplication; Booking train tickets inadvancecansavemoney. theyexperience delays. contact themif Suggest that, ontheday, thedepartmentorpersonthat theyare meeting tohandsothattheycan studentshavethenumberof journeyplanning andearly arrival.Emphasise theimportanceof astudentisunsure howtodress fortheirinterview,If advisethemtocontacttheinstitutionfordirect guidance. it.most of This istheir opportunitytotalksomeonegenuinelyinterested inwhattheyhavetosay, soremind themtomake the questionsconcerning Xcouple of and Y butthatthesehavealready beencovered. Advise studentsnottore-ask questionsthatare already answered duringtheinterview. Instead, theycansaythat hada three. thesubjectaboutwhichtheywouldlikeThese tofindoutmore. mightrelate tocoursecontentoraspectsof theirown,At somepoint, thestudenthasanyquestionsof sotheyshouldprepare theinterviewerwillprobably twoor askif 29

www.thecompleteuniversityguide.co.uk and www.ucas.com havefurthertipsforinterview

Useful resources preparation.

AFTER SUBMISSION AFTER SUBMISSION prevent themfrom doingwell. Students shouldnotclaimthattheyhavenoweaknesses but, instead, describehowtheywill Why exactly havetheyappliedhere? interest? Doestheuniversityorcollege Are there anyparticularfacilitiesorsocietiesof guidance concerninghowbesttoprepare, sostudentsshould contactthemdirectly. Further informationabout applyingto to provide a portfolio of work as part of theinterviewprocess ortoprepare workaspartof anauditionpieceforaliveperformanceattheir to provide aportfolioof The interviewerwantstoseethatastudent’s strengths relate tothecourseinsomeway, andthattheirweaknesses willnot Students may wishtodiscuss aspecificmoduleonoffer, orsomethingthatthiscourseoffers whichanotherprovided bya Students applyingtostudyart-orperformance-based courses–e.g. Fine Art, Photography, MusicorDance–maybeasked chosen institution. The university, conservatoire orcollegetowhichthestudent hasappliedwillbeabletooffer further I tell students that if theyare invitedtoaninterview,I tellstudentsthat if thentheuniversityorcollegereally wants tooffer themaplace. All thestudenthastodois notcausethemtochangetheir probably hasn’t. Itmeans theinterviewerdidn’tconsidercandidate worthpushing If a student comes out of anOxbridgeinterviewthinkingithasgonewell, astudentcomesoutof thenit If to theirabsolutelimit, where theynolongerfeelcananswer. rank highlyinleague tables? What doesthelocalarea havetooffer etc.? art orperformance-basedcoursescan befoundatwww.ucas.com. 2. Why doyouwanttocomethisuniversityorcollege? 3. What are yourstrengths andweaknesses? Which questionsare likely tobeasked? 1. Why doyouwanttothiscourse? Art andperformance-basedcourses overcome thosetheydisclose. different institutionmaynot. FE College UCAS Officer mind aboutthat. School HE Advisor School 30

they are committing toitandmustdecline allotheroffers. UNCONDITIONAL: The student hasalready metthecourserequirements sohasbeenoffered aplace. astudentacceptsthisoffer, If exam orqualification results. CONDITIONAL: The universityorcollegeisoffering thestudentaplaceproviding theymeetconditionsrelated totheirforthcoming

Once universitiesandcollegeshaveprocessed applications, theymayoffer aCONDITIONAL orUNCONDITIONAL place. Students will • • • • • • • qualifications). The confirmationletter willprovide informationconcerninganythingelsethestudent needstodo(e.g. of provide proof appear in Track soadvise themtomonitortheirapplicationonline. Students shouldreceive aconfirmationletter fivetosevendays after theuniversityorcollegeconfirmstheirplace. Thiswill bodies). Colleges anduniversitiesconfirmplacesafter summer examination the results (sentdirectlyrelease toUCAS of byawarding their firmchoice. Students donothavetoselectaninsurance placebutadvisethemtodosoincasetheyare unabletomeettherequirements of Therefore, itshould havelowerentryrequirements. The insurance theirfirmacceptancechoice. acceptanceisabackup forstudentswhodonotmeettherequirements of two. They canonly acceptonefirmandinsurance choice. theyare holdingmore They mustthendeclineallotheroffersthan if They should selectafirstandsecondchoice, alsoknownasfirmacceptanceandinsurance acceptance. receive official notification from UCAS when receivingan offer. UCAS Track alsodisplays offers made. When studentsreceive more thanoneoffer… RECEIVING ANDACCEPTINGOFFERS Offer confirmation 31

AFTER SUBMISSION AFTER SUBMISSION • • • Students should beadvisedtostayathome(rather thanbeawayonholiday)whenresults are released. Extra andClearing spaces If astudentdoesnotreceive aplace,If theymaywishtoapplythrough Extra orClearing. decline. the institutiontocheck. Otherwise, theuniversityorcollegemayoffer analternativecoursethattheywillneedtoacceptor A universityorcollegemaystillaccept astudentwhomisses theentryrequirements byagrade ortwososuggesttheycontact with higherentryrequirements, theywillhavefivedaysinwhichtoapplyanotherinstitution usingUCAS Adjustment. astudent’s results exceedIf thoserequired bytheirfirmly acceptedoffer, andtheywanttoconsidercoursesinstitutions • • • • • What if astudentdoesnotgettheresults neededtogetontotheir chosen course? What if Visit www.ucas.com forfurther informationon Adjustment. place. There are no Adjustment vacancylists soadvisestudentstocontactinstitutionsdirectly todiscuss an Adjustment ends. theydonotreceive analternativeplace, If theywillremain acceptedbytheirconfirmed place. To secure aplaceonanothercourse, astudentmusthavereceived analternativeoffer before thefive-dayperiod Track. moment theirconditionalfirmoffer changestounconditionalfirmandthey registerfor Adjustmentvia UCAS Adjustment runsfrom 18th–31st August. However, astudent’s ownpersonalfive-dayperiodstartsfrom the theirfirmacceptancechoice. higher entryrequirements thanthatof Adjustment isforstudentswhodobetter thanexpected withtheirresults andwanttoapplyforacoursewith fill upquicklysotheywillneedtoactgivethemselvesthebestchanceof What if astudent’s grades areWhat if better thanexpected? Adjustment Top tip: 32 securingaplace.

• • • • • • • through UCAS Clearing, evenwhennotincludingallfivechoicesintheirinitialapplication (seebelow). thestudent’s Extra applicationsareIf alsounsuccessful and/ortheExtra deadline haspassed, theycanapplyformore courses providing that theyholdnooffers. theirfivechoicestheyshouldbeeligibletoapplyfor more coursesviaUCAS Extra theyhaveusedupallof (seebelow),If add andapplyformore courses viaUCAS Track. theirfivechoicesontheapplicationformandthey are holdingnooffers, thestudenthasnotusedupallof If theymaybeableto qualification or exam results. Extra applicationscanbemadewithpending UCAS Extra. They canonlyselectcoursesmadeavailablethrough before the July deadline. as manyinstitutionstheywishbutonlyoneatatime Using Extra, studentscanapplyforasmanycoursesin beginning of July.of beginning FebruaryExtra isopenbetweentheendof andthe There are variousoptionsforastudentwho hasbeenrejected, received nooffers orhasnotacceptedthosetheyhave.

UCAS Extra

STUDENTS WITH NOOFFERS 33 • • • • • cerning Extra andClearing. Visit www.ucas.com forfurther informationcon- to provide theirPersonal IDandClearing number. Students willneedtocontactinstitutionsdirectly for aplacethrough Clearing. Results musthavebeenreceived before applying only oneatatime. courses inasmanyinstitutionstheywishbut Clearing allowsstudentstoapplyforasmany will needtoactquickly. depends onhowquicklycoursesfillupsostudents late October. However, theClearing end-date Clearing opensinearly July andusuallyrunsuntil UCAS Clearing

AFTER SUBMISSION AFTER SUBMISSION • • • • who can. Alternatives mightincludethefollowing: Explore alternativehighereducationroutes andoptionswithstudentsorputthemintouchalocalcollegeorganisation The studentmaybenefitfrom furthercareers guidanceatthistime, available. if The HEinstitutions towhichtheyhaveappliedmaybeableoffer furtherguidanceandadviceforanapplicationthefollowingyear. them inabetter positionthefollowingyear. Advise themtoconsiderrethinking coursechoices, retaking anyqualificationsorapplyingforalower-level coursethatcouldput - Foundation degree - Foundation year - HigherNationalDiploma - HigherNationalCertificate - Access toHigherEducationDiploma How tosupportstudentswhostillhavenotreceived anoffer… 34

institution runningthecourseforfurther others, studentsmaybeabletoapply to contacttheFinance Adviser atthe for studentfinance. Advisestudents students under 24 years of age.students under24years of For Some of thesecoursesare free for Some of Important note… information.

• • • • • • • in locatingsomewhere else tolive. accommodation. The universityshouldhaveitsown Accommodation Officer: suggestthatthestudentcontactthemforhelp astudentmisses outonanaccommodationspaceintheiruniversitytheywillneed tolocatealternative,If off-campus University websitesaskstudentstorank theiraccommodationpreferences andapplyonline. should startresearching before receiving offers sothattheycanapplyfortheirchosenaccommodation assoonpossible. Encourage research intoaccommodationtypesonoffer; manyuniversitiesoffer optionsthatsuitdifferent budgets. Students basis. They should applyforaccommodationassoontheyhaveacceptedanoffer; spacesare allocatedonafirst-come, first-served institution, studying awayfrom home. especiallyif Once auniversityorcollegehasconfirmedstudent’s place, theymayneedtoapplyforaccommodationattheir chosen to secure accommodation, encourage themtogetintouchwiththecollegeforhelplocatingaccommodationnearby. FE collegesdonotusuallyoffer studentaccommodation. astudenthasoptedtostudyhighereducationatcollegeandneeds If Residence –agreat waytodevelopindependenceandinteractin itsHallsof withotherstudents. their firstyear evenwhenstudyinglocally. astudenthasappliedtolocaluniversity, If stillencourage themtoconsider residing Many studentsopttostudynearer home. However, mostare eligibletoapplyforaspaceinuniversityaccommodationduring NEXT STEPS: STUDENT ACCOMMODATION AND FINANCE ACCOMMODATION Studying athome 35

NEXT STEPS: STUDENT ACCOMMODATION AND FINANCE NEXT STEPS: STUDENT ACCOMMODATION AND FINANCE • • • • • • financial provision neededtopaytuitionfeesmayprevent astudentfrom taking uptheirplaceonacourseatuniversityorcollege. • • Schools andcollegesshouldoffer adviceandguidanceregarding studentfinanceanditsapplicationprocess. Notsecuringthe For abursary orscholarship, studentswillneedtoapplydirect totheuniversityorcollege. on academicorsportingtalent, otherson lowhouseholdincome. Suggest research intobursariesorscholarshipsonoffer. Different institutionsoffer each: differente.g., types of some are based Students maybeeligibletoapplyforascholarship orbursaryattheirchoseninstitution –moneythey willnothavetopayback. up tothem, sotheywillneedtoknowhowbudgetappropriately. Maintenance loansare each paiddirectly academicterm. intoastudent’s bankaccountatthestartof Howtheyspenditwillbe vice versa. Maintenance loansare means-tested, meaning thehigherstudent’s current household incometheless theywillreceive, and rent, food, travel andbooks. Students canapplyforamaintenanceloanfrom Student Finance Englandtocoverlivingcoststheymayincurduringstudy;e.g., start of each academicyear.start of Student theStudent Finance Loans Company) (partof willpaythisamountdirectly touniversitiesandcollegesatthe www.gov.uk/student-finance their coursefees, theirfamily’s regardless of householdincome. Students canfindfurtherinformationandapplyhere: Most full-timeUK studentsare eligibletoapply for atuitionfeeloanfrom Student Finance England, tocoverthefullamountof What helpisavailabletostudents? Scholarships andbursaries STUDENT FINANCE Maintenance loan Tuition feeloan 36

this personas‘consent toshare’, theycanspeak withStudent • • • Finance Englandonthestudent’s behalf. Students canalso identify parents/carers as‘consent toshare’ andopttoend difficulty whenapplyingforfinance.If astudentidentifies Currently, part-timestudentsmaybeeligibleforatuitionfeeloanbutnotmaintenance loan. However, Student Finance England • The Student Finance Adviser attheirchosenuniversityor college who they should contact if theyare experiencing college whotheyshouldcontactif Students willneedtoreapplyeach academicyear. onlineforstudentfinanceahead of on time. student finance early willmean astudent’s tuitionfeesandmaintenanceloanare paid around February each year andtake roughly sixweeks tobeprocessed. Applying for Students should applyassoontheircourseplaceisconfirmed. Applicationsopen Applications are made onlineatwww.gov.uk/apply-online-for-student-finance. eligible forextra financialsupport. For furtherinformation, students shoulddirectly contacttheuniversityorcollege. Students who are parents, carers, care-leavers, orwithadditionallearning requirements orlong-termhealth conditionsmaybe are duetomake changestoavailablefinance forpart-timestudentssoshould contactthemtoenquire further. Students shouldknowabout… this atanytime. How andwhenstudentsshouldapply Additional support Important note… 37 What theywillneed…

support of their application (if applicable). theirapplication(if support of Details from parents, carers orapartnerin theirhouseholdincome; Details of passport orlongbirthcertificate; National Insurance Numberandanindate University orcollegeandcoursedetails; A bankaccountintheirname; A workingemail; can changeonanannualbasis.

Please visit www.gov.uk for Student finance information up-to-date information.

NEXT STEPS: STUDENT ACCOMMODATION AND FINANCE NEXT STEPS: STUDENT ACCOMMODATION AND FINANCE • • • • • • • www.standalone.org.uk. age andestranged from theirparents/carers orare financiallysupportingthemselves. Further information canbefoundat Some studentsmaybeabletoapplyforstudentfinanceasanestr receive abasicrate. that thestudentisunabletoreceive thefullmaintenanceloantowhichtheyare entitled, althoughtheywillprobably still In thiscircumstance, thestudentshouldcontacttheiruniversityorcollegeStudent Finance Adviser foradvice. Itmaymean or bycontactingStudent Finance England. Parents, carers andpartnerscanaccess furtherinformationatwww.gov.uk/apply-for-student-finance/parents-and-partners thestudent’s parent/carerIf islivingwithapartner, theytoowillneedtosubmitincomedetails. theirincomeandsendinsupportingevidence:e.g.They willneed toprovide detailsof aP60orbenefitaward letter. already haveanaccountthattheyshoulduse, rather thansetting upanewone. for studentfinancethemselvesinthelast25years, orhavepreviously supportedanotherchild’s application, theywill Parents, carers orpartnerswillneedtosetuptheirownonlineaccountwithStudent Finance England. theyhaveapplied If complete aseparate onlineform. astudentiscurrently livingwithparents,If carers orapartner, itislikely theywillneedtosupporttheirapplicationand If astudent’s parent,If carer orpartner willnotsupporttheirapplicationforstudentfinance For teacher-friendly informationandresources onstudentfinance, visit www.practitioners.slc.co.uk Important note… 38 anged student, providing thattheyare under25years of

WHERE TO STUDY HIGHER EDUCATION IN KENT AND MEDWAY

Colleges delivering Universities ESSEX higher education ESSEX ESSEX 1. Canterbury College 7. Canterbury Christ

(Canterbury) Church University 5 9 (Canterbury, Medway) Greenwich www.canterburycollege.ac.uk 5 975 5 9 Dartford Dartford75 www.canterbury.ac.uk Avery Hill 10 Greenwich Greenwich Gravesend7 9 Sheerness 7 LONDON 9 7 2. 7 27 3 Avery Hill Avery Hill 9 10 Sheerness Broadstairs Gravesend 9 10 Sheerness 64 8 8. University for the9 LONDON 9 2 (Broadstairs, LONDON 3 2 3 4 2 MEDWAY Broadstairs Broadstairs Creative Arts 6 8 Folkestone, Dover) 6 8 2 2 107 4 (Canterbury, MEDWAY MEDWAY 4 38 www.eastkent.ac.uk Canterbury 46 13 Rochester, 10 102 8 10 8 Canterbury 5 Hadlow CanterburyMaidstone 3. Maidstone) SURREY 6 Maidstone 3 6 3 2 2 www.uca.ac.uk 5 Hadlow (Tonbridge, Canterbury) 5 SURREYHadlow 113 Tonbridge SURREY KENT www.hadlow.ac.uk 2 106 42 Tonbridge 11 Tonbridge 11 16 Ashford Dover 9. University of KENT KENT 9 2 2 10 2 10 4 4 1 Ashford4 Dover Greenwich 1 Ashford Dover Folkestone2 4. MidKent College 9 2 9 (Medway) 4 (Gillingham, Maidstone) 4 Folkestone www.midkent.ac.uk www.gre.ac.uk Folkestone

EAST SUSSEX 5. 10. University of (Dartford, Gravesend) Kent EAST SUSSEX EAST SUSSEX www.northkent.ac.uk (Canterbury, Medway) www.kent.ac.uk 6. (Tonbridge, Ashford) www.westkent.ac.uk

39 Higher education glossary

Adjustment – A system where students whose exam results FE – Further education. FE usually refers to study that is meet or exceed those required by their firmly accepted taken after statutory schooling is finished but below higher conditional offer have up to five days to look for an education level. alternative course without losing their confirmed place. Firm offer – The offer of a place which the student has BA – Bachelor of Arts degree accepted as being their first choice. BEng – Bachelor of Engineering degree Foundation degree – A vocational degree that includes work-based learning and is completed in a shorter amount BSc – Bachelor of Science degree of time than a full degree. Students can usually go on to do an extra year or two at the end of the foundation degree to Bursary – Money given to students which does not have to be receive a full honours degree. paid back. Foundation year (also called Year 0) – Only available in Buzzword – A word chosen by your school or college when some subjects. For students who have not met the degree they register with UCAS. Students will need this buzzword when entry requirements, the foundation year enables them to do they first set themselves up on UCAS so that they are linked to some preparatory study for the degree. Successful completion the correct school or college. usually guarantees a place on the full degree course. Campus – The buildings and grounds of a university or Fresher – This is the name given to a student who is just college. starting their time at university. Clearing – A system which enables students to apply for a Gap year – A year away from study, most frequently place on a course with vacancies, at the end of the application between the end of school or college and the start of higher cycle. education. Conditional offer – An offer of a place made by a university Graduate – A person who has been awarded a degree from which has certain conditions attached to it that a student has to a higher education institution. meet in order to secure their place, such as the achievement of certain grades. Halls – The Halls of Residence are blocks of accommodation on campus for students. Priority is usually given to first year Deferral – An agreement between a university and student for students. the student to delay starting their course until the following year. HE – Higher education. Study at degree level or higher. HE courses are offered at universities and some colleges. Degree apprenticeship – Similar to higher apprenticeships but provides an opportunity to earn a Higher apprenticeship – Provides students with the bachelor’s or master’s degree while earning a paid salary. opportunity to gain a higher education qualification while earning a salary. Extra – The system which allows students who made five choices on their UCAS application but are not holding any offers, to HNC/HND – Higher National Certificate and Higher National apply for another course. This takes place before Clearing starts. Diploma.

40 Honours degree – A qualification awarded by a higher Scholarship – Financial help awarded to students by an education institution after the satisfactory completion of a institution. Bachelor degree programme. When studying for a Bachelor’s degree with honours, students are required to pass a higher Single honours degree – A degree in a single subject. number of credits than if studying for an ordinary degree. Seminar – A classroom based activity that is more interactive Insurance – The offer of a place which the student has than a lecture. Discussion is usually based on course material. accepted as being their second choice. Students’ Union – A student organisation present in most Joint honours degree – A combined degree in more than universities and colleges. It is there to represent students on one subject. local and national issues, as well as organising many activities for students on campus. Lecture – A discussion and presentation delivered by a university or college lecturer while students take notes. Tariff points – The points system attributed to entry qualifications for HE courses. Master’s degree – A higher level degree which can be taken after satisfactory completion of a first degree. Also Top-up year – For students who have successfully completed known as a postgraduate qualification. an HND or foundation degree and want to progress onto the final year of an honour’s degree programme. Oxbridge – an informal term to describe the Universities of Oxford and Cambridge. Track – Accessed online through UCAS. This is where students track the progress of their application, receive information on PGCE – Postgraduate Certificate in Education. A teacher offers made, and reply to offers. training course taken after successful completion of a degree. Tuition fees – These are the fees charged by universities and PhD – Doctor of Philosophy. A qualification beyond a Master’s colleges for their courses. degree level which is the culmination of years of research in a specific subject area. Tutorial – A one-to-one discussion session with a tutor about work or issues with the course. Postgraduate courses – Higher level courses, usually taken only after successful completion of a degree. UCAS – Universities and Colleges Admissions Service. Almost all students applying for full-time higher education courses in Reading week – A period during the university term when the UK apply through UCAS. there are no taught sessions and students are expected to work on their own study and research. Unconditional offer – An offer of a place made by a university or college with no conditions attached to it. Russell Group – A group of 24 leading UK universities, set up as a collaborative group in 1994. Places at Russell Group Undergraduate – A student who is in the process of universities are generally the most competitive. They include studying for their first degree. Oxford and Cambridge. Vocational course – A work-related programme of study Sandwich year – A year of work or study abroad as part of a designed to help gain access to a specific career. course. This usually takes place before the final year. Work-based learning – Learning which takes place in a work environment.

41 FURTHER RESOURCES FOR STUDENTS AND TEACHERS

Prospects Complete University Guide – An independent guide – Provides information about different careers and offering a wide range of information and advice about universi- the necessary progression routes. ties, courses, careers and student fees. www.prospects.ac.uk www.thecompleteuniversityguide.co.uk Student Finance – Information on how much university is going to cost, what financial support is available and how I could – Provides progression route advice and inspiration in students can apply for it can be found here: the form of career-related videos. www.direct.gov.uk/studentfinance www.icould.com www.ucas.com/ucas/undergraduate/undergraduate- finance-and-support Informed Choices – Advice from the Russell Group about choosing GCSE and A-level subjects. The Student Room – An online community where students www.russellgroup.ac.uk/media/5320/informedchoices.pdf can access information and chat with other students. www.thestudentroom.co.uk Kent and Medway Progression Federation – Access the ‘Activity Portal’ and find out about activities, events Which? University – Provides information about applying to and open days available to students, run by institutions offering universities and choosing the right course and institution. higher education courses in Kent and Medway. www.university.which.co.uk www.kmpf.org UCAS – The Universities and Colleges Admissions Service. National Careers Service – Independent advice about www.ucas.com progression routes and choosing qualifications. www.nationalcareersservice.direct.gov.uk/ UK Course Finder – Helps users find the most suitable course through a questionnaire. Not Going to University – Information for students who www.ukcoursefinder.com are considering alternative options to university. www.notgoingtouni.co.uk Union View – Film clips of students discussing their university and showing the campuses and surrounding areas. Open Days – The university and college open day directory. www.unionview.com www.opendays.com Unistats – The official website for comparing data on courses Plotr – Interactive quizzes that help students to find the right and universities. career. www.unistats.direct.gov.uk www.plotr.co.uk

42 DEADLINE CALENDER

N.B. The dates included here are approximate. It is important to check exact dates via the UCAS website as these may change each year. Key dates for UK Conservatoires and courses may also vary.

Deadlines September Early September (around 6th): UCAS applications open for courses starting next year.

October October 15th: Application deadline for medicine, dentistry and veterinary courses and for Oxford and Cambridge Universities.

January January 15th: Application deadline for most courses, other than those with October and March deadlines.

February Late February (25th): Extra opens.

March Mid-March (24th): Application deadline for some art and design courses (although some have January 15th deadline). End of March: Universities will usually have made their decisions by this stage.

May Early May (5th): University and college decisions due on applications submitted by January 15th.

June End of June (30th): Applications received after this date will automatically be entered into Clearing.

July Early July (4th): Last date to apply through Extra. Early July (5th): Clearing opens.

August Mid-August (17th): A-level results published. Adjustment opens for registration. End of August (31st): Remaining offer conditions must be met by this date. Adjustment period ends.

September Mid to late September: Final opportunity to apply for courses starting this year. End of September: Clearing vacancies removed from UCAS search tool.

October Late October: The last opportunity to add Clearing choices and for universities and colleges to accept Clearing applicants.

43 www.kmpf.org