1. PREPARING FOR UCAS Where do you start?

2. Begin with the information you have. n What AS/A2 grades have been predicted? n Turn these grades into points.

3. UCAS Tariff PointsAS GradeA2 Grade 120A 100B 80C 60AD 50B 40CE 30D 20E

4. Entry Requirements Each University will give specific entry requirements n These are usually in the form of points e.g. 240 points (which is equal to 3Cs at A2) n They may ask for a specific grade e.g. 240 points with at least a B in Maths n In addition, they could specify subjects and levels e.g. Maths and Physics at A2 n Certain courses may exclude Critical Thinking and other examinations from their offer.

5. Selecting Your Courses Students need to select up to 5 courses which include a range of options that are: n ambitious n appropriate n cautious. Medical students are only allowed to choose a maximum of 4 medicine courses

6. Degree Courses n Single degree e.g. Law n Joint degree e.g. Business studies & Politics n Combined degree e.g. Drama with English n Interdisciplinary degree e.g. Cultural Studies n Sandwich courses & years abroad

7. Other Higher Education Routes n BTEC Higher Education Diplomas (HND) Usual entry requirement is one A level pass. Usually take two years to complete with the option of entering a degree course in the 2 nd or 3 rd year. n Foundation degrees A vocational course lasting two years which can lead directly to a specific profession or provide progression to a single honours degree course. n Employment based training An alternative to traditional university courses. An opportunity to learn and earn.

8. What to study? n Familiar Courses – e.g. English n New non vocational – Japanese, Zoology n Vocational – Agriculture, Web design, Teaching

9. Competitive Courses n Additional exams – e.g. BMAT, UKCAT & LNAT exams n A* grades or impressive module results n Evidence of Wider Reading n Work Experience n Extra-curricular activities n University deadline is usually 15 th October (UCAS deadline for all entries is 15 th January)

10. How does the School Support? n Citizenship lessons n Progression interviews n Progress files including references written by tutees n Rigorous checking of applications n Careers interviews.

11. How can you support? n Get involved with the process n Encourage students to visit institutions n Ask about relevant work experience n Inform the school if you have concerns n Read drafts of personal statements and expect the highest standards

12. Remember n Decisions take time n Research will help to narrow the choice - www.ukcoursefinder.com n Open Days give a feel of the institution n Sixth Form Staff will offer support n Ultimately … it’s up to the individual.

13. COMING SOON … I’ve succeeded at Higher Education … what do I do now?

14. sixthform@wellsway.bathnes.sch.uk www.wellsway.bathnes.sch.uk wellsway6thform.wikispaces.com