If your child is in Year 11 or 12, university may feel like something to worry about later. But the truth is, university applications and offers move quickly. By this time next year, many Year 12 students will already be receiving offers.
The groundwork that students lay now – choosing the right subjects, building strong study habits, and exploring courses – makes a huge difference when UCAS applications roll around.
A-level and IB subject choices can open or close doors. For example, medicine requires Chemistry, Engineering often needs Maths and Physics, and top universities may look for facilitating subjects. If your child is in Year 11, now is the time to research which courses require which subjects.
How can we help? Speak to one of our expert University Advisors for a pathway consultation. We can work with your child to support them to make informed decisions about their future.
Predicted grades for university are based largely on Year 12 work. Universities often make offers before final exams are even sat, so consistent effort throughout Year 12 is essential. Good habits now mean less panic later.
How can we help? If your child has a subject that is especially important for their future plans (for example, A Level English for an English degree) or they’re finding a subject challenging, we can provide tailored support with an expert GCSE, MYP, IB or A Level tutor.
Visiting open days in Year 12 helps students see what environments and courses suit them – big city campuses, smaller collegiate settings, or specialist institutions. And it’s not just about the UK: many of our families also consider world-class universities in the USA, Canada and Europe. Beginning the research now means fewer rushed decisions in Year 13 and a clearer sense of direction.
How can we help? Our University Advisors can work with your family to create a personalised long-list of universities in the UK and overseas. We can also connect your child with tutors who have studied the same subject, or even at the very institutions they are considering – offering unique insight and guidance from those who have been there themselves.
A personal statement is far more compelling when it demonstrates genuine intellectual curiosity and commitment to a subject. Admissions tutors look for evidence that a student has engaged with their chosen field beyond the classroom. This might include:
How can we help? Our University Advisors and Application Mentors guide students in identifying the experiences that will strengthen their application and align with their chosen course. We can:
Remind your child that it’s fine not to have everything figured out yet. Exploring courses broadly in Year 11 – 12 means less pressure when it’s time to shortlist universities.
Final Thought
University applications may feel far away, but offers come through sooner than most families expect. Ready to give your child the edge? Get in touch with us today to start building a standout personal statement portfolio and ensure your teen is on track for competitive university applications.
By Marketing Team