7 classic mistakes to avoid in UCAS applications

1. Students and parents underestimate the level of expectations and competition. Top English universities have requirements well on par with top Grandes Ecoles. British students are working really hard to prepare entrance to the best universities, sometimes even from an early age. English private schools have years of experience in the process. Furthermore, in recent years, the number of international students has increased. It is probably too early for Brexit to slow the inflow at this point, if it ever does.

2. When students are not really motivated by the subject they are applying to, their personal statement is often very weak. In worst cases, they may even be tempted to plagiarise their personal statements. If you can’t decide what to study or don’t know where to start, seeking external advice may be useful.

3. Putting pressure on teachers to get inflated predictive grades may give short term satisfaction but often proves pointless. Most teachers know their students well and are objective. One needs to apply to institutions with various levels of grade expectations.

4. Some students apply to an essay heavy subject when their English level and writing skills are weak. While university life will be a different experience in many ways, success will be built on core skills developed in secondary school.

5. Picking a university because of the gardens, or friends or somebody you know who has been there is limiting. Students need to really think of the university that will give them the best development prospects and extend their quest for information beyond the immediately accessible.

6. Some students spend the first quarter of Premiere preparing for an American application which they later on abandon, others jet set to Open Days throughout England or try becoming last minute Olympic Champion in drumming. Getting on with school work and acquiring the right methodology is essential at the beginning of Sixth Form (or Premiere).

7. Stay focused on what is really important to differentiate yourself and that is consistent with your chosen subject. Students miss deadlines for compulsory tests, register for the wrong course, or forget to send essential documents to confirm their applications. Keep a diary with the most important deadlines.