CHOOSING A COURSE With so many subjects on offer, it can be difficult to narrow down what degree to study. Here are some pointers to consider: What subjects does your child enjoy at school or college?
Would they prefer to continue studying a subject they know or try
something new Do they have a career in mind? If so, try to research what qualifications they might need and if a particular degree
subject is required Are they keen on traditional academic work or do they prefer more practical learning? Degree apprenticeships are an increasingly popular choice for those who like hands-on activities. Apprentices are employed in a specific field, do a combination of on-the-job training and university work, and get their tuition fees
paid for them What grades are they predicted to achieve at school or college? Some degrees have higher entry requirements than others. Universities tend to publish the requirements for individual
courses on their websites.
THE APPLICATION PROCESS If your child intends to start university straight after sixth form, the main UCAS application deadline is in January during Year 13. Some courses, such as medicine, have earlier deadlines. They will then receive replies from the individual universities, letting them know if they have been made an offer.
They will be asked to select a firm and an insurance offer – your child’s first and second choice. These are usually conditional on them achieving certain grades or UCAS points. The offer is then confirmed on results day in August. If they miss
out on their place, they can search for other courses at different universities using the Clearing system.
For more information on how Clearing works, visit www.ucas.com
