THE UCAS WEBSITE
This is where you can learn about the application process, personal statements and finance. The course search lists all the courses on offer, and you can search according to university or subject.
For more tailored and personalised information, use UCAS hub to save results of different searches.
UNIVERSITY WEBSITES
University websites can sometimes be overwhelming, as there is so much information it can be difficult to know where to start. Concentrate on finding course information first, and then you can look at other important factors such as where the university is located, where you would live, what student life is like and what facilities are available.
FIND OUT WHAT CURRENT STUDENTS THINK
Most University websites feature student profiles, which are a good way to see what current students have to say about the course they're studying and their experience as a student. You might also be able to get in touch with students directly, so that you can ask them questions.
FIND OUT HOW THE UNIVERSITY IS SUPPORTING STUDENTS THROUGH COVID-19
Student support services contribute towards the quality of your university experience and this applies now more than ever. Researching how universities are supporting their students and asking what measures are in place for the next academic year, may help you to envisage what your experience will be like, whether you’re starting this year or next.
At Bangor University, we’re supporting our students with issues surrounding learning, finance and accommodation as well as mental health and wellbeing. We’re also putting extra support in place for students starting in September, including a pre-arrival survey to identify gaps in learning and concerns that students may have, plus assessment programs to help build experience of formal exams and more structured personal tutor interactions.
REPUTATION AND RANKING
There are many different league tables, awards and rankings out there to rate universities. Use these to guide your decision but never base your decision solely on one league table or award.
SOCIAL MEDIA
Engage with universities and stay connected through their social media. Keep up to date with important dates, news and developments and get a taste of student life.
ATTEND VIRTUAL OPEN DAYS
Virtual Open Days are the most important part of your research and the next best thing to attending an on-campus open day.
Most Virtual Open Days will feature videos, virtual tours and interactive sessions with staff and students, covering all the topics you would want to find out about on an actual open day, like the courses offered, student life, finance and accommodation. Also, look out for student content, such as vlogs and videos, so you can get a feel for what kind of experience you'll have.
If you join a live chat session, make the most of the opportunity to ask questions to staff and students. This is your chance to get a real insight into studying at the university.
MAKE A PLAN
In the same way as you would if you were attending an on-campus event, you do need to plan for a Virtual Open Day - the more you plan, the more you'll get out of the experience.
Make a list of what you are looking for from a course and university and the questions you want to ask. Look at the timetable, note the sessions you want to watch, know what is live and what you can watch again. Make notes during the session and take contact details so you get in touch later.
Sit back, make yourself comfortable and enjoy visiting a university from the comfort of your own home!