A parent's guide to university applications
Embarking on the university application process is a significant step in your teenager's journey towards higher education. As a parent or guardian, watching your child go through the university application process can be both exciting and nerve-wracking for you too, and providing the right guidance and support is essential.
In this blog post, we'll explore key insights and practical tips to help you navigate this important time with your teenager.
Understanding the University Application Process:
Before your child starts their UCAS application, they should thoroughly research the universities and courses they are interested in. Look at university league tables, attend university open days, explore online resources, and engage in discussions about their interests and career goals.
Familiarise yourselves with the application timelines, including deadlines for submitting applications, exams, and financial aid forms. Being aware of key dates ensures that your teenager doesn't miss crucial milestones.
Understand the entry requirements for different courses and universities. Help your teenager assess whether their academic achievements and extracurricular activities align with these requirements.
Understand UCAS - the online platform used to apply to UK universities. The application includes personal details, academic qualifications, and a personal statement. Students can apply for up to five courses through UCAS.
Supporting their Personal Statement:
The personal statement is a crucial part of the UCAS application. It is an opportunity for your child to really showcase their skills, achievements, and passion for their chosen subject. Encourage your child to start their personal statement early and seek feedback from their subject teachers, their form teacher or even a professional service.
Encourage your teenager to reflect on their experiences, achievements, and aspirations that might be relevant. These could include volunteering, part-time jobs, or hobbies that demonstrate skills and attributes valuable to their chosen course.
Offer constructive feedback on draft versions of the personal statement. Help them articulate their thoughts clearly and concisely, emphasising the qualities and experiences that make them stand out and of course keep an eye out for typos!
Here are our top tips for writing a great personal statement:
Start with a strong opening sentence that captures the reader's attention.
Demonstrate a genuine passion for the subject and highlight relevant experiences.
Use concrete examples to support your claims.
Show a clear understanding of the course and the university.
Emphasise transferable skills such as teamwork, communication, and problem-solving
Financial Considerations:
Research tuition fees for different universities and explore available financial aid options. Familiarise yourself with student loans, scholarships, and grants to help you make informed decisions.
Some universities offer on-campus accommodation, while others require students to find their own. Initiate conversations about budgeting, accommodation costs, and living expenses and help your teenager understand the financial aspects of university life and plan accordingly. Encourage your child to research their options early!
Prepare for Interviews and Assessments:
Conduct mock interviews to help your teenager feel more confident during potential university interviews. Practise common questions and discuss strategies for presenting themselves effectively. Your school may hold mock interviews too, make sure to check!
If your chosen universities have admissions exams, familiarise yourselves with the assessment process. Understand what skills and attributes universities are assessing during these sessions. Find more information at the UCAS website.
Offers and Decisions:
Universities will review your child's application and make offers based on their academic qualifications and personal statement. If your child receives offers, they can choose which offer to accept. If they receive multiple offers, they will need to make a decision by a specific deadline (make sure they check the deadline in advance).
Encourage your teenager to take the lead in their university application journey. Foster independence by allowing them to manage deadlines, correspondence with universities, and other application-related tasks. You should also discuss the possibility of rejections as a natural part of the process, when doing so, emphasise the importance of resilience and exploring alternative options if needed.
The university application process can be stressful, but with the right support and preparation, it can also be an exciting and ultimately rewarding collaborative experience. By following the advice above you can empower your teenager to make informed decisions and embark on a successful academic and personal adventure!
For more information or advice speak to us today! Email support@edubridge.org.uk or visit the Contact Us page of the website.
