University Open Days

Planning on applying to university this autumn? Have you looked around the institutions on your shortlist? It doesn’t matter whether you are interested in Oxford, Edinburgh, Exeter, Imperial, Warwick or any of the other UK universities – it is really important that you try to visit and get a feel for whether you would be happy there for three or more years of study.

UK universities hold Open Days, usually in June or July and September or October in order to showcase their courses and facilities to prospective students.

They offer an opportunity:

• To find out what university life is like
• To find out about the challenges, opportunities and rewards of academic and social life
• To meet with the academics, as well as current students
• To gain advice before finally deciding on which degree course you should take
• To view the accommodation, the library, access to computers, the careers office, cafés and restaurants and much more
• To check out the Students’ Union and find out about the social and sports clubs that they offer and how you can get involved

This is your chance to ask questions such as:

• What ‘A’ level grades do I need? Are there any specific subject requirements?
• Which qualifications are acceptable?
• Are there any alternative courses to consider?
• How does the selection process work?
• What do you look for in the application and Personal Statement?
• Can you recommend any reading or activities to inform my Personal Statement?
• Do you hold interviews or is selection based only on the UCAS application?
• Are gap years and deferred entry applications acceptable?
• Is it an advantage to get my application in early?

Check out the university websites and book a place – beware of any deadlines!

Can’t make an Open Day? Then check online to see if they offer ‘special visiting days’. Universities are aware that not everyone can visit at specific times so they may offer additional dates for you to visit. You might be able to arrange for a student-led tour or take your own. Don’t forget that many of the universities also offer virtual tours.

If you want to get a ‘feel’ for the place you will need to visit the university during term-time. This will give you a better idea of what university life is like. Not only will you ‘feel the buzz’ but you will also be able to meet students who are already studying there.

If you require any assistance in arranging a university visit or would like more information about Open Days contact us at hello@ukstudyoptions.com