Choosing a university
Information for parents and guardians about comparing and choosing universities.
How to compare universities
We’d recommend referring to the UCAS guidance regarding comparing universities and university courses.
As well as thinking about the course itself, students need to consider the kind of student experience they want and the factors that will contribute to this. This includes location, size, type of institution (specialist or multi-faculty), their graduate ambitions, support services, university connections, and academic and social opportunities. Within London alone there around 40 universities, all of which will offer different academic and student experiences.
We recommend that students look beyond rankings to find the course and university that is the best fit for them. This might include speaking to current students via Unibuddy, taking a campus tour, attending Virtual Open Events and in-person Open Days, engaging with university research or subject tasters (see Springpod and University of London Taster Courses). Eligible students are encouraged to participate in our outreach activities.
What to look for during a university Open Day
Information about course content, entry requirements and graduate destinations are easily accessible on the UCL website. It is helpful to familiarise yourself with this information in advance of the Open Days and come prepared with specific questions you may like to ask.
The Open Day is a good opportunity to speak to academic staff, current students and student support services, visit the campus and key facilities, view some accommodation, take a guided tour and generally get a feel of the university (though remember it will be much busier at an Open Day compared to a typical day!). It’s a good idea to plan your journey, priority activities, and make a rough schedule in advance to help you prepare.
If you can’t make an in-person Open Day, a campus tour is a good way to visit the university and get a general sense of whether it’s somewhere the student can see themselves enjoying studying at. Most departments will deliver offer holder events, offering another opportunity to visit the campus before making a final decision on their firm and insurance choices.
