Applied Students: University Options And Opportunities

The path to university differs depending on the country and the specific university in question. In the US, for example, students can apply early to one school under an early decision agreement, but this is not a legally binding agreement. In the UK, students apply to university through UCAS, which allows applications to up to five universities. In Canada, some universities require applicants to have completed academic courses, while others may accept students who have only taken applied courses, provided they have sufficiently high grades.

Academic vs applied courses

The differences between academic and applied courses lie in their focus and the ways in which students engage with the subject matter.

Academic Courses

In an academic course, students learn the essential concepts of a subject and explore related material. While knowledge and skills are developed through both theory and practical applications, the emphasis is on theory and abstract thinking as a basis for future learning and problem-solving. Academic courses require strong independent reading strategies and a deeper understanding of concepts. Assignments are complex and require balancing a variety of tasks. Students are assessed on their understanding of concepts and their ability to use thinking and inquiry skills. Academic courses are suited to students who are self-motivated, require less teacher direction, and have learning styles suited to theoretical, abstract thinking.

Applied Courses

Applied courses cover the essential concepts of a subject, and knowledge and skills are developed through both theory and practical applications, with a focus on the latter. Familiar, real-life situations are used to illustrate ideas, and students are given more opportunities for hands-on applications of the concepts being studied. Assignments are more practical and skill-based, and students are assessed on their ability to communicate essential skills and apply concepts to practical situations. Applied courses are suited to students who benefit from additional time spent on individual topics and have learning styles suited to hands-on, practical learning.

University Entry Requirements

Entry requirements for university vary, and some universities may accept applied course credits, while others may require academic course credits. In general, universities require a mix of qualifications, subjects, or exam grades for entry to their courses. For example, some universities in Ontario require completion of the Ontario Secondary School Diploma, including specific Grade 12 U and/or M level courses and a minimum overall final average. Students should refer to the entry requirements of their chosen university and consult with their school's guidance counsellor to ensure they are on track to meet those requirements.

Transitioning from Applied to Academic Courses

Transitioning from applied to academic courses is possible, and students can do so by repeating core subjects at the academic level or taking bridge courses. However, this may require departmental and principal approval and is more feasible for students who have been exceptional in their applied courses. Students who are struggling with applied courses may need to transfer to academic courses and take an extra year of high school to catch up.

College as a Pathway to University

College can serve as a pathway to university for students who have taken primarily applied courses in high school. Colleges may offer preparation courses or programs that provide the necessary prerequisites for university entry. Additionally, some colleges have transfer or articulation agreements with universities, allowing students to obtain a diploma and a degree through a bridging process.

University entry requirements

Qualifications

Each course and university will have different requirements, usually a mix of qualifications, subjects, or exam grades. These may include:

• GCSEs
• A-levels
• Highers
• Btecs
• Portfolios of work
• Admissions tests
• Ucas points

Personal Statement

Your personal statement is an important part of your application. It is your opportunity to show what makes you a great applicant and could be the deciding factor between you and another applicant with similar qualifications. Your personal statement should include:

• Why you want to take that particular course
• Any extra-curricular activities you have been involved in that are relevant to your application
• The skills or qualities you have that would make you good at the subject

Deadlines

For most undergraduate courses, you will need to get your application in by a specific date, usually in January. If you miss this deadline, you can still apply, but the university does not have to consider your application. If you are applying to Oxford or Cambridge, or most courses in medicine, veterinary medicine/science, and dentistry, you will usually need to apply by October.

Application deadlines

UK Application Deadlines:

The UK typically has three main intake seasons: September, January, and May. The September intake is the primary admission period, with approximately 80% of applicants opting for this intake. The January intake serves as an alternative for those who missed the September deadline, while the May intake is less competitive with a smaller selection of courses. Here are the key deadlines for the 2025/2026 academic year:

• October 15th, 2024: This is the deadline for all courses at Cambridge and Oxford universities and most medicine, veterinary medicine, and dentistry courses at other institutions.
• January 29th, 2025: This is the 'Equal Consideration' deadline for the majority of undergraduate courses at high-ranked universities.
• June 30th, 2025: This is the final deadline for all other undergraduate courses for international students. Applications received after this date will be entered into UCAS Clearing.

It's important to note that postgraduate degree applications in the UK are open on a rolling basis, so there is no set deadline. However, deadlines for specific postgraduate courses may vary.

Tips for Meeting Application Deadlines:

To ensure you don't miss any important deadlines, it's advisable to start your application process early. Familiarize yourself with the key dates, including those for your chosen universities and courses. Additionally, consider using application tracking tools or setting reminders to stay organized and on track. If you do miss a deadline, don't panic. There are often alternative pathways to apply, such as through clearing or as a mature student.

Personal statements

A personal statement is a chance to get noticed for your unique talents and experiences. It is a chance to talk about yourself and your passions outside of your grades. It is an important part of the application process and should showcase your passion for the subject, what inspired you to apply for the course, and why you would be an asset to the university.

• Know your audience: Understand what the admissions tutors are looking for and tailor your statement accordingly. For example, if you are applying for a course in the arts, you may want to emphasise your creativity and unique perspective. If you are applying for a course in the sciences, you may want to highlight your analytical skills and problem-solving abilities.
• Be unique: Try to include something memorable about yourself. Admission teams read thousands of applications, so give them a reason to remember yours. This could be a unique experience you have had, an unusual hobby or interest, or a creative way of expressing your passion for the subject.
• Show your enthusiasm: Start your personal statement by showcase your enthusiasm for the subject and your understanding of what the course entails. This will help to grab the attention of the admissions tutor and make them want to read more.
• Keep it concise: You only have a limited amount of space (usually around 4,000 characters or two sides of A4 paper), so use your words wisely. Focus on the key points you want to get across and avoid long-winded explanations.
• Be bold: Don't be afraid to talk about your achievements and the things that make you proud. Include any positions of responsibility you have held and any awards you have won. These things will make you stand out and show that you are a high-achieving candidate.
• Include relevant experiences: Share details of any work experience, placements, or voluntary work you have done, especially if it is relevant to your course. Try to link these experiences to skills or qualities that will make you successful in your chosen field.
• Have a clear future plan: If you know what you want to do as a career, explain how you plan to use the knowledge and experience you gain from the course to launch your career. This will show that you are ambitious and have a clear direction.
• Connect the beginning and the end: It is a good idea to reinforce what you said at the start of your statement in the conclusion. This will create a sense of cohesion and make your statement more memorable.
• Cliches: Avoid using overused phrases or ideas. Be original and let your unique voice shine through.
• Overthinking: Don't spend too much time worrying about making your opening line perfect. Just focus on showing your enthusiasm and introducing yourself to the admissions tutor.
• Lack of focus: Keep your statement relevant and simple. Avoid including unnecessary information that does not add value to your application. Make sure every sentence has a clear purpose and contributes to your overall message.

Remember to proofread your statement carefully and ask for feedback from friends, family, or a careers advisor before submitting it. Good luck!

Scholarships and grants

Scholarships, grants, and bursaries are available to students to help bridge the gap between ambition and achievement. These financial aid options can make higher education more accessible and affordable, and they do not need to be paid back.

Scholarships

Scholarships are typically awarded based on merit, financial need, or other specific qualifications. They can come from the state, the federal government, or private organisations. Students can apply for as many private scholarships as they want, and these may be based on academic merit, artistic or athletic talent, or other factors. Local organisations or businesses may offer scholarships to students who plan to study at a regional college or pursue a particular field of study.

Grants

Grants are usually awarded based on financial need. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is a critical step in helping students find money to pay for college. Federal grants may be awarded based on financial need, as demonstrated on the FAFSA, and do not need to be repaid. Additional federal grants may be given to students intending to teach in a school serving low-income families or those who have lost a parent or guardian in military service in Iraq or Afghanistan after September 11, 2001.

Bursaries

Bursaries are another form of financial support available to students. While less common than scholarships and grants, they can provide valuable assistance to those who need it.

Frequently asked questions