1. 1 Applying to University

2. 2 Today’s session: The UCAS application cycle What we are we looking in University applications? Personal Statements Top Tips!

3. 3 UCAS – key facts Maximum of five choices (some exceptions) Application considered simultaneously by universities Conditional offers – Firm and Insurance August – confirmation of offers £23 Registration Fee

4. 4 What are we looking for in a good application? Strong academic profile may include specific GCSEs and AS/A2 levels Knowledge and interest in subject area Strong teacher reference

5. 5 What are we looking for? Vocational i.e. teaching, medicine – a commitment to the profession and understanding of the role Relevant work experience, interests and hobbies

6. 6 Personal statements Most important part of the UCAS form The process is all about you and your skills This is your chance to –Promote yourself to admissions tutors –Stand out amongst the applications

15. 15 Structure and content It is not enough just to list things Present a clear and well structured statement Demonstrate a genuine interest for the subject Demonstrate an understanding of the subject area outside of normal studies

16. 16 What are we looking for? Strong opening paragraph Why you want to study a degree in this subject area Joint honours or two subjects? Why those two in particular?

17. 17 What are we looking for? Explanation of skills learned (through studies and hobbies, interests etc.) A focus on information which is relevant Students who are going to contribute something to the university community

18. 18 Skills and Experience A level History Assignment Research skills Analytical skills Presentation skills EXPERIENCE EXPERIENCE

19. 19 Skills and Experience Part-time job TESCO check-out TeamworkResponsibilityOrganisation EXPERIENCE EXPERIENCE

20. 20 Showcase your skills! Example “At TESCO I work with a variety of different people whether it be liaising with my Manager to negotiate upcoming shifts or helping a customer locate an item on the shelves. It is my responsibility to ensure customers have the best possible experience. I do this by constantly building and revising my product knowledge and working effectively alongside colleagues with different areas of specialism.”

21. 21 Use of language How you say something is just as important as what you’re saying Be positive, take responsibility for your achievements Use proactive words and phrases: negotiated, coordinated, directed… Be aware of UCAS similarity detection rules Check spelling and grammar!

22. 22 Things to think about Work experience? Volunteering? Reading around your subject Getting involved in careers you’re interested in – shadowing, attending public events, taster days

23. 23 Top tips! Start early Include gap year plans Listen constructively Avoid txt language Avoid quotes, jokes and poems!

24. 24 Questions? Charlotte Brooks, Student Recruitment Officer Want to know what it’s like to be a student? Find out at http://blogs.nottingham.ac.uk/studentlife http://blogs.nottingham.ac.uk/studentlife Not sure which university is for you? www.which.co.uk/universitywww.which.co.uk/university UoNapplicants The University of Nottingham UoNapplicants www.youtube.com/user/NottmUniversity