If you have just received your +2 results you might consider studying at a UK university. For undergraduate study options in the UK, most universities only accept applications via the general application system called UCAS.
Making a good UCAS application: You will need to include a Statement of Purpose with your UCAS application. Start your Sop with a bold statement and don’t be shy to sell your strengths.
Make sure you include all of your academic strengths including any prizes you have won or competitions which you have participated in. Most universities would expect you to prioritise your academic achievements.
Give examples to evidence why your achievements have added to your skills and helped you grow as a person. Universities are looking for students that will attain the highest of their potential.
Consider asking someone who knows you well to read through your personal statement. It’s always good to get a second pair of eyes to take a look at what you have written and be sure it reflects all of your strengths and achievements.
Check for spelling and grammar errors. You can never check too many times! Take your time over the application. Make sure you save it regularly so you don’t lose any of the changes that you make.
Clearing: In the UK, there is a process known as Clearing which offers you alternative options for your studies in the UK. There will be plenty of vacancies through Clearing this year for those who haven’t yet secured a place or for those who might want to change their mind about the course or place they would like to study.
You can also take advantage of “early Clearing”. Some institutions like the University of Sheffield will be able to take some applications from well qualified applicants as soon as you have your results, or will give you the option to register your interest in places so the university can contact you if they become available.
UCAS.com lists most vacancies so this is the best place to go to get an idea of what’s out there across the whole of the UK- keep checking as these will be updated throughout the Clearing period.
Also, check individual university websites if you know where it is you want to study. There will be more details about the courses on their own websites and you can check out more information about the university.
UK students receive their A-level results on 16 August. Even if universities don’t advertise their vacancies until later in Clearing, you can still do your research beforehand.
The students’ union in the UK: This union is a student-run society where you can join lots of different clubs and societies-anything from Bollywood and rowing to marketing. It is a great way to get to know new people and gain experience through extra-curricular activities. You can take part in projects, competitions, tournaments, or social events throughout the year.
It’s an important decision and you will want to pick the place that is right for you as you’ll be living there for the next few years of your life. Look at the accommodation that is available — some universities like the University of Sheffield offer an accommodation guarantee for students who secure a place with them in Clearing and Adjustment and it’s important to look at what is on offer here. You may not be able to visit the campus but lots of universities now have virtual tours in place where you can get an idea of the facilities at the institution.
Take time over your decision: The most important thing is to. Consider your options, ask all your questions, and make sure you are happy with your choice. If you can’t find the course you want to study this year you can apply again next year.
It’s better to make the right choice and go the following year than to choose a course or university you aren’t quite happy with now. When you apply you will already have your results so you can focus on telling the university what you have planned for your year out and why you have decided it is the place you want to study now.
Arriving and settling: Once you have secured your place it will be time to start thinking about arriving in the UK and settling in. Most universities will have specific advice available for international students including how to apply for a visa and what to pack to cope with the British winter! Some universities like Sheffield offer induction programmes to help you when you arrive.
Many universities will also have student ambassadors — current students from across the world who are happy to share their experiences of studying in the UK and all the things that they love about being a student here. We regularly hear from students who are considering studying in the UK and how they value speaking to someone who has been through similar experiences and may also be from the same country.
When you arrive in the UK, make the most of the support and advice sessions that are provided as you will get to know your new home city, find your way around your university and meet people who are all starting out on the same journey together.
If you are expecting your +2 results next year, UCAS will reopen in September for 2019 entry. You can apply for undergraduate study with your class X grades and predicted +2 grades.
You do not have to wait for your final results to be released to apply for UK undergraduate courses, you will be given a conditional offer and this will be changed to unconditional as soon as all the conditions of your application have been met.
The writer is head of admissions, University of Sheffield, UK