DO YOUR HOMEWORK ON LOCATIONS
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 the first decision to make before you apply.
CITY OR CAMPUS?
If you want your lectures and general amenities close at hand, go for a city-based university, but if you’d rather be more spread out choose a campus.
CAST A WEB
As well as checking out university websites, take a look at other helpful sites such as Ucas’s www.yougofurther.co.uk.
EXTRA-CURRICULAR
Whatever your interests are — whether it’s rock climbing, amateur dramatics, politics or snorkelling — find out whether there are facilities to cater for them. It’s not all about study!
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. 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 it’s important to get it right. Find out if things such as internet access and bed linen are included in the rent and if in halls, what activities are available.
HIT THE TOWN
You’ve got to live there for three years at least, so make sure you’re going to feel at home as well as be entertained.