Why go to University?

University isn't just about learning, the experience will enrich your life. You will:

• Increase your knowledge – study what you love, what you’re interested in, meet peers who share your passions and work with the top experts in their fields

• Get your first true taste of independence and freedom - build self-confidence, experience all aspects of student life, learn more about yourself, broaden your horizons and meet new people

• Gain a qualification that’s internationally recognised - UK higher education qualifications are recognised by employers and academics worldwide. Having a degree can open many doors for you career- wise

• Experience a new place - moving out of your home town will allow you to explore a brand new environment and all of its benefits. It's an exciting opportunity to experience a new area- you could even study abroad!

• Develop the essential skills you’ll need in your career and working life – like communication, organisation, critical thinking, time management, team work, leadership, problem-solving, adaptability, self- motivation

• Increase your earning potential – having a degree makes you more attractive to employers, you’ll have a greater choice of jobs and you’ll earn more. The average salary for graduates is 30% higher than for non-graduates aged 25-30

• Experience student life – yes, you’re expected to work but uni is also fun! Whatever your interests, there are a huge range of clubs and societies on offer. Uni is a great opportunity to make friends for life, meet a new and diverse range of people, and expand your worldview because of this!

• Receive money while you learn and explore - student finance offers financial support to university students. Find out more by clicking on 'student finance' in the navigation bar

• Think about which universities offer the best course for you - consider looking at university league tables, or which modules the university offers (have a look at the previous year's curriculum). However, if you are unsure of the direction you want to take you can choose a university which allows you the freedom to explore, so you can discover your area of interest. You could also consider which academics are working in your future department!

• Where in the world do you want to be? will the vibe of your university make a difference? Perhaps you want to move to a big city, or maybe you want to be near the coast. And how far away from your home town do you want to be? Or do you want to study from home? Remember, you can use open days to explore your future home

• How much money does it cost to live there? Places like London, Oxford or Brighton can be a little more expensive to live and rent in than places like Norwich, Swansea or Bath. Be sure to research this as living somewhere more expensive may mean that you need to take up part- time work

• Student support - Check out what your uni choices offer in terms of mental health, financing and course materials. Learn about the university’s protocol for supporting students, and make sure you know about the systems in place if you run into any difficulties. And if you have a pre-existing mental health condition, a disability or any other additional needs, check out what support will be available to you when you reach university

• Your social life - does your uni of choice offer societies that support your interests? If you're hoping to take up a new activity, you can scroll through their lists of societies and clubs and see if anything catches your eye