University Applications

Whether you want to go straight to University, start an apprenticeship, take a GAP year or begin paid employment, you can get advice from the Sixth Form pastoral team and our independent careers consultant.

University Applications

University entrance is arranged through the ‘University and Colleges Admissions System’ (UCAS). Applications are made at the start of Year 13 and should be completed by the end of November. As things stand, at the moment, applications are limited to five institutions (or four for Medicine, Dentistry or Veterinary Science) who will (possibly after interview) either reject your application or offer a place conditionally upon examination grades. You may then firmly accept one of these and reserve another with lower requirements to act as your insurance offer. At Challoner’s we aim to guide you through the process of gaining a university place with a comprehensive sequence of events.

Higher Education Evening – This event in March of Year 12 acts as an introduction to the whole process for you and your parents, with a range of helpful presentations.

UCAS Briefings – On your return to school after the Summer exams we will discuss the decisions you have to make and the logistics of applying in greater detail.

Open Days – During the second half of the summer term the opportunity to go to University Open Days exists. You may take two days off school to attend these events, one which may be a visit organised by the school. You must apply for absence via a form available from the Sixth Form office. Permission will be granted if there are no Saturday open days available at the institution concerned and the course is a realistic option for you.

Oxbridge Evening – In conjunction with Dr Challoner’s High School this event in March gives students who are interested in applying to Oxford or Cambridge the chance to learn more about the demanding admissions process for those institutions. During the Autumn term of Year 13 students complete the UCAS online application form under guidance from staff. Forms from students applying for Oxbridge, Medicine, Dentistry and Veterinary Science must reach UCAS by October 15th. All other applications must reach UCAS by January 15th.

In order for us to process all applications on time Oxbridge forms must be submitted by September 30th and all others by November 30th.

Gap Years

You may wish to consider postponing your entry to university after leaving the Sixth Form and taking a gap year instead. In general terms, universities are happy with this idea as they tend, eventually, to receive students who have an extra year of experience and maturity before beginning their courses. It is important, however, to show that your gap year has been well spent. For those going into specific areas of study such as medicine, law or veterinary science it can be beneficial to have spent some time in a working environment directly connected with these areas. Many students decide to work for a few months and then go travelling to far-off places around the world. Various agencies such as GAP and Project Trust exist specifically to help with these matters and can, for a fee, place you in working situations in a wide choice of countries around the world.

Apprenticeship or Work

For some students the prospect of going to university straight from school does not appeal and paid employment is the right choice, perhaps in the form of Higher Apprenticeship. This can be a hard decision to take, however, the range of exciting opportunities available is increasing year on year. Remember that you can go to university later in life, and that employment can provide an opportunity for developing skills and attributes that education may not. If you are considering this route, please talk to someone in the Sixth Form pastoral team or our careers consultant.

Careers Consultant

The school retains the services of a careers consultant who is available to talk to you about any aspect of your future, be it Higher Education, apprenticeships or employment.