1. Preparing for UCAS The year ahead

2. Plan now This time next year you will have left to do your A2 exams… Need to plan now for your future University, employment, apprenticeship…?

3. Why go to university? Better jobs and prospects Many jobs require a degree Earn up to 50% more Develop valuable skills Study abroad or do a work placement Do what you love doing A good time; new interests and experiences

4. Quiz 1. What does UCAS stand for? 2. How many universities can you apply to? 3. When is the deadline for applications? 4. Is the deadline the same for all applications? 5. Do you have to pay to apply? 6. Will you have to attend an interview? 7. Will you have to do an entry exam? 8. Can you change your mind after you’ve applied?

5. Types of University Medieval Universities (1000-1600) Victorian Universities (1820-1899) Red Brick Universities (1900-1957) Plate Glass Universities (1960’s) New Universities (post-1992) Sutton Trust = UK’s top 30 universities (research-led and top of various league tables). Russell Group = 24 of UK’s top research-intensive universities 1994 Group = smaller research-intensive universities They have different reputations for different subjects

6. Range of courses There are about 100,000 to choose from! Tips for choosing: Any particular degree needed for your career? What do you currently enjoy studying? What are you good at? How competitive is that subject? What is the rate of employment for people who did that course? How is it rated by current and former students? Check out league tables.

7. Aim high, but be realistic. You have 5 choices… Look for a range of entry requirements: if you get BCC at AS, you should look for courses that range from BBC to CDD. You can eventually select 2: a Firm and Insurance offer.

8. The next few weeks Research courses and universities – start with www.ucas.com, then individual university websites www.ucas.com Book some Open Days Register with UCAS and start your application form 16 June: Talk from Lincoln University on ‘How to write a personal statement’ 17 June onwards: more research and writing personal statements; sessions with Mr de la Bédoyère Sessions for people applying to Oxbridge

9. Autumn Term Make your final decisions about courses and universities Finalise your personal statement Complete the application form, adding in AS results Discuss your reference with your tutor Make an appointment to see Miss Chant or the Assistant Head of Sixth Form before your application is sent We aim to send off most applications by the end of November Mock interviews for all students who need one Work hard to achieve your goals!