How to Choose The Right University

Which is why I have written this article to try help you out. When I applied for university and received 5 out of 5 offers, I was delighted, but soon became stressed when I had to choose a ‘firm’ (top choice) and ‘insurance’ (back up choice). A range of factors had to be considered carefully to help make the right decision.

Choosing the right university is especially important because it has such a HUGE impact on your future. You have to try choose the university that tailors to your wants the most. For me, the very important considerations were things like: does the university (and the course I want) have a good reputation? are the graduate prospects good? is there chances of internships/work placements/work abroad? can I afford the accommodation?

As you can see, from them few examples above, there is a LOT to consider.  So here are a few tips;

Try pick the university that has the best reputation/teaching for the subject you want to do. It is generally important to go to a reputable university but if it isn’t any good for your subject, you could be at a disadvantage. Try pick a university where you know the subject you will do proves to do well. There’s no point going to a university where most people studying your course only earn 2:2’s. You want to achieve the best you can so going to a university where the prospects are higher is better.

Try pick a university with good graduate prospects. This is vital because obviously after university you want to go into a decent career. If a university has grad prospects of 60% and another of 88% which would you choose? Obviously it is important to note that even high grad prospects doesn’t mean all those graduates went into great careers, it just means they are employed somewhere, so take this consideration seriously, but also lightly.

Can you afford the university? Different universities offer different types of grants and subsidies and varying costs of accommodation. You have to be realistic. Would you be better going to a university where finances are easier to handle with all the costs? Remember, worries about money could impact hugely on your university work so always take this consideration very seriously.

Is the university convenient? Would you rather live closer to home or further away? Would you prefer a campus university? Would you prefer a city with good nightlife or a university in a quieter area? When choosing a university, it is best to choose one that fits with your personality so that you feel more confident and enjoy university more.

Can you get in? Obviously, there is no point choosing two universities as your firm/insurance if you don’t think you will achieve the grades. Be realistic, not idealistic. 

Choosing a university for yourself is tough, but a decision that will effect your whole life, so take it seriously, and I hope these tips helped.