The Undergraduate Preference Puzzle: Do Universities Have Favorites?

University preferences are a big decision for prospective students, and there are many factors to consider when choosing a course and institution. While each application is viewed and analysed on its own merits, colleges and universities consider a variety of factors and data points during the admissions process. This includes students' grades and essays, as well as the geographic diversity of the incoming class.

In addition, universities have their own institutional priorities and must meet certain criteria with each incoming class, which can vary from year to year. These institutional priorities may include finding students with exceptional talent in art, music or athletics, or filling department-specific needs such as encouraging the enrolment of female computer science majors.

When it comes to choosing a university, it's important to familiarise yourself with the process and deadlines, gather as much information as possible, check entry requirements carefully, and consider the finer details to help you prioritise your preferences.

Course suitability

When applying, it is advisable to choose a range of courses, including a dream course, a more realistic option, a course the student is confident about getting into, and a pathway course. It is also essential to list the courses in order of preference, as universities consider the top choice first. Additionally, students should be mindful of entry requirements, such as prerequisite subjects, interviews, tests, folios, or auditions, which may vary even for similar courses.

Universities, on the other hand, strive to admit students who demonstrate intellectual curiosity, a strong work ethic, and a passion for their chosen field. They seek to admit students who will thrive at their institution and contribute to a well-rounded and diverse student body. This means that, in addition to academic preparation, universities consider factors like geographic diversity and extracurricular activities.

When selecting a university, students should consider their priorities and research the universities and courses that interest them. They should familiarise themselves with the application process, deadlines, and entry requirements. It is beneficial to gather as much information as possible by browsing university websites, reading course guides, attending campus tours, and speaking to staff and career advisors.

While the application process can be overwhelming, students can make informed decisions by researching and seeking guidance. They should list their course preferences in the order they would like them to be considered, rather than the order they think they are most likely to get into. It is also important to have a backup plan and include similar degrees with more flexible entry criteria on the preference list.

Academic reputation

The academic reputation of a university is a crucial variable in the international education literature. A university with a high academic reputation is more likely to be chosen by international students. This is because academic reputation is often associated with the quality of the institution and its recognition in the academic community.

When considering academic reputation, students may look at various factors such as the university's ranking, the quality of its faculty, and its research output. They may also consider the reputation of specific departments or programs within the university.

In addition to academic reputation, students also consider the variety of programs and subjects offered by the university. They may prioritize universities that offer specializations or internships in their desired field.

It is important to note that while academic reputation is a significant factor, it is not the only factor that determines a student's university preference. Other factors such as location, cost, and campus facilities also play a role in the decision-making process.

When choosing a university, it is essential for students to carefully research and consider their priorities to make an informed decision.

Job prospects

When it comes to job prospects, the university a student attends can have a significant impact on their future career. While a university degree has become a means to an end for many, with financial considerations and future career prospects taking priority, it's important to recognise that not all degrees are created equal.

Recent research suggests that the university a student attends can greatly influence their future earnings and student loan debt. A report by the Georgetown University Center on Education and the Workforce found that college graduates with identical degrees in the same field of study earned vastly different salaries depending on their alma mater. For example, a graduate with a bachelor's degree in business administration, management, and operations from Harvard University earned less on average in their first year after college than a student with a bachelor of applied science in energy management from Bismarck State College.

The data also indicates that graduates from more selective colleges tend to earn higher salaries. However, this isn't always the case, and it's important to consider other factors such as the cost of the degree, the student's passion and interests, and the career services provided by the university.

In addition to future earnings, a student's choice of university can also impact their career opportunities. While a college degree may be necessary for certain industries, such as accounting and finance, an alma mater may only get a candidate's foot in the door. Hiring managers also consider internships, work experience, and extracurricular activities when evaluating candidates.

To enhance their job prospects, students should take advantage of the career services offered by their university, apply for industry placements or volunteering roles, participate in mentoring schemes, network with classmates and lecturers, attend recruitment events, and get involved with university societies and clubs. These steps can help students gain relevant experience, build their professional network, and develop the soft skills that are highly valued by employers.

While the university a student attends can have an impact on their job prospects, it is not the sole determining factor. Students should also consider their individual goals, passions, and interests when making decisions about their education and future careers.

Teaching quality

When it comes to teaching quality, there are several factors that can influence a student's preference for a particular university. Firstly, the overall quality of academics and teaching staff is important. This includes considering the credentials, experience, and expertise of the faculty members. Students may also look at the student-to-teacher ratio to ensure they will receive adequate attention and support.

The availability of specialisations, internships, and work experience opportunities within a course can also impact a student's preference. They may favour universities that offer a range of specialisations or those that provide hands-on learning experiences through internships or work placements.

Additionally, the facilities and resources available to students can play a role in their university preferences. This includes libraries, laboratories, access to industry-standard equipment and technology, and other physical infrastructure that enhances the learning experience.

When evaluating teaching quality, students may also consider the teaching methods and instructional approaches used by the university. Some institutions may employ innovative teaching techniques, while others may follow a more traditional lecture-based approach. Students may prefer a particular style that aligns with their learning preferences.

Finally, the assessment and grading system used by the university can also be a factor in a student's preference. Some students may favour universities with a balance of exams, assignments, and projects, while others may prefer a heavier weightage on exams. The availability of academic support services, such as tutoring or study skills workshops, can also influence a student's perception of teaching quality.

While teaching quality is a significant factor in university preferences, it is important to note that it is just one aspect of the overall university experience. Other factors, such as course suitability, academic reputation, and job prospects, also play a crucial role in a student's decision-making process.

Personal recommendations

When it comes to choosing a university, it's completely normal to feel overwhelmed. The process can be daunting, especially if you're unsure about what and where you want to study. Here are some tips to help you navigate the university application process and make informed decisions about your preferences:

Familiarise Yourself with the Process and Deadlines:

Keep important dates and deadlines in mind. Mark key dates on a calendar or set reminders to ensure you don't miss out on courses you're interested in. Most undergraduate applications have specific deadlines, and late applications may incur additional fees.

Gather Information:

Conduct thorough research on universities and courses that interest you. Browse university websites, read course guides, attend campus tours, and speak to staff and career advisers. The more information you gather, the better equipped you'll be to make informed decisions.

Check Entry Requirements:

Pay close attention to the entry requirements for your preferred courses. Most courses have prerequisites, and some may require additional components like interviews, tests, folios, or auditions. Ensure you meet the necessary criteria before finalising your preferences.

Order Your Preferences:

When listing your preferences, remember that you will only receive one offer per round for the highest preference you are eligible for. Therefore, list your preferences in the order of your interest, not solely based on the entry requirements. Universities will consider your top choices first, and this system maximises your chances of getting into the course you truly want.

Consider the Finer Details:

When deciding between similar courses, dig deeper into what each course offers. Explore specialisations, internship opportunities, work experience, and available facilities. These factors can help you prioritise your preferences and choose the courses that align best with your interests and career goals.

Have a Backup Plan:

Even if you have a dream course in mind, it's essential to include backup options on your preference list. Consider similar degrees with more flexible entry criteria or explore different campuses, as the same course may have varying ATAR requirements across campuses. Having backup options ensures you have alternative pathways if you don't get into your first choice.

Know That You Can Change Your Mind:

Remember that you can change your preferences multiple times during the Change of Preference period. Don't stress if you're not entirely sure about your initial choices. Take your time to research and reflect, as you'll have opportunities to make adjustments later in the year.

Take Your Time and Be Thorough:

When filling out your preference list, allocate sufficient time to review your application. Double-check your personal details and ensure you've included all the necessary documentation. Verify the course codes, as the same course at different campuses may have distinct codes.

Remember, This is Your Life:

Choose courses that resonate with your interests and lead to careers that excite you. While it's great to discuss options with friends and family, the final decision should be yours. Trust your instincts and select the universities and courses that align with your passions and aspirations.

Frequently asked questions