THERE’S more to think about than simply what course you want to study; there might be any number of institutions that offer the subject you’re interested in, so how do you decide between them?
These tips will point you in the right direction.
HOME FROM HOME
Do you want to live at home while you study or are you itching to spread your wings? This is probably the first decision to make when considering what universities to apply for.
CITY OR CAMPUS?
Some universities and colleges are scattered throughout the town or city in which they’re based, while others are all in one place: on a campus. So, if you want all your lectures and general amenities close at hand, go for the latter. If you’d rather things were a bit more spread out, you want the former.
EXTRA-CURRICULAR
Despite what people in some quarters might tell you, you’re not just at university or college to study. Whatever your interests are – whether it’s rock climbing, amateur dramatics, politics or snorkelling – find out whether there are facilities to cater for them.
OPEN HOUSE
Attending open days is easily the best way to find out whether the institutions you are thinking of applying to are up to standard. You can visit individual departments, ask questions of lecturers and generally get a feel for the place. Visit www.opendays.com for where and when you can visit.
MAKE ROOM
Accommodation is usually one of the most expensive bits of university life, so getting it right in your first year is paramount. Find out if things such as internet access and bed linen are included in the rent and what activities are available if you go into halls – many have their own clubs and societies.
HIT THE TOWN
The quality of the university or college is vital, but what about the town or city in which it’s based? You’ve got to live there for three years at least, so it’s worth making sure you’re going to feel at home as well as be entertained.