How to find the right university for you

It can be daunting to choose your university. Here are some tips to help you navigate your way through the decision making process:

• Compare programme content
  You’ll need to look beyond the programme title because programmes with exactly the same name may differ enormously. Look carefully at the differences between courses within your subject before deciding which to apply for. If you are unsure of the direction you want to take, choose a university that allows you the freedom to experiment with different subjects to help you figure out your areas of interest. At Richmond, our US liberal arts approach provides a broad base of knowledge and skills in addition to a specialist subject area.
• Research student life
  Everyone has a different idea about what makes the ideal student lifestyle. Interested in night life? Try and chat to some current students about the nightlife on offer. Like to take up something new? Scroll through the lists of societies and clubs on offer and see if there is one that appeals. Are you an explorer? Picking a location that suits your personality will mean that you will be far more inclined to spend time exploring your surrounding area and making the most of it.
• Attend open event
  If you can attend an open event in person, it will provide you with the best insight into university life, the programme and support services. Chat to students for some honest first-hand experience of studying there. Alternatively, if you can’t get to an open event, a virtual open day is the next best thing.
• Understand the application process
  What are your predicted grades? If you find out which universities ask for these grades as entry requirements, you’ve got a great list of options to start with. If you’re not sure about entry requirements, contact the admissions office within the relevant university to check before submitting a full application. It’s also a good idea to check the deadlines before applying to make sure that you have the best possible chance of gaining a place on your chosen programme. Give yourself plenty of time to apply. Your personal statement needs to show how you ‘connect’ with your chosen subject and it’s a good idea to consider its relevance to your future career choice. It will also help if you show how you can contribute to the campus community.