University can be a way of boosting your career prospects and/or studying a subject you love.

As well as offering a huge variety of degree courses, university can also be a place where you can build your independence, gain confidence, and take part in all sorts of other activities.

Most degree courses take between three or four years to complete and they can be the key to pursuing your career aspirations – especially if you want to go into a career like medicine or architecture, for which a degree is essential.

University can also be a good choice if you have a passion for a particular subject and want to dedicate your time to learning more.

University students are expected to study more independently than you may have done at school or college. You will also need to think about covering the costs of university including tuition fees and living costs. However, there is financial support available and the investment can pay off, as government data shows that, on average, graduates earn more than non-graduates, and are less likely to be unemployed.

Degree courses are assessed in many different ways, including formal exams, practical assessments and project work and some degree courses include time spent studying abroad. Alternatively, you might choose to study your entire degree at a university overseas – opening up the opportunity to immerse yourself in a new culture.

Depending on which course and university you choose, the entry requirements will differ. Universities usually require the grades from 2 or 3 A Levels and many are happy to accept other level three qualifications such as BTECs, T levels and the International Baccalaureate. Please note, certain courses might require you to have studied specific subjects, and some courses might require certain GCSE grades too.

You usually apply for university at the beginning of Year 13 with applications closing in January. However, if you haven’t done this or don’t achieve the results that you need, you can still get a university place through two processes: ‘Extra’ or ‘clearing’.

Finally, please be aware some competitive courses such as medicine, vet science/medicine and dentistry as well as Oxford and Cambridge have an earlier deadline in October. 

If you’re unsure of your options or want to find out more, speak to individual schools or colleges or speak to a qualified careers adviser through your school, college or other provider, local authority or via the National Careers Service.