Essential tips
Significant dates
Use the UCAS website, exam board sites and your school contacts to make sure you are aware of all the significant dates in the exam and university application cycle.
Personal Statement
It may help if you proofread your child's statement and offer constructive criticism.
Interviews
These may be part of the selection process (and you may be called on as a taxi again!) so check with the university.
Be supportive
They still need you! Year 12 and 13 are two very busy years for your son or daughter. They will be adjusting to a higher level of study after GCSEs, taking more exams, and making important decisions about what to do next.
Be aware that it can be very stressful for them and you. Your challenge will be to balance their need to become more independent with the extra care and support they will need from you.
Open days
Open days and university visits are vital for making an informed choice. They can get expensive so plan transport and if need be overnight accommodation early if you can. Some students are happy to attend alone or with friends but parents are very welcome at our Open Days and most universities will offer sessions just for you.
Most universities have more than one open day which start after AS exams (mid June onwards) and you may need to book online in advance.
Entry requirements
The options available will depend largely on the subjects your son or daugher is taking at A Level or equivalent, and what their predicted grades are. Managing a student’s expectations is important as some courses are very competitive.
Results day
After Year 13 exams, A Level results will come out around the second week of August and students need to check UCAS to see if they have a confirmed place at university. If things haven’t gone to plan, students will need to be available to contact universities.
Gap years
If students want to take a gap year they can apply for courses later. Check with their school or college that they can come back for a reference and/or use of facilities to apply once they have left. They may benefit from a working or travelling gap year and it may even enhance a future application.
Accommodation
Where a student lives in their first year may determine how well they settle in. If in university accommodation, check what they need to take with them and if contents insurance is included.
If they will be cooking, encourage online grocery shopping to help stick to a budget. If renting privately start searching early and use university advice and accommodation services.
Support services
These are provided by all universities, find out where they are and what they offer just in case they are needed. From medical centres and counsellors, disability and money advisers, student welfare is very important to a university.
Finding out who will be there for your son or daughter day to day or in a crisis can be reassuring as a parent.
