What should I consider when applying for a University?

Congratulations on receiving your A-Level results! As you graduate from Junior College, it is now time to evaluate your University options and find the one that caters best to your needs. 

Besides academic fulfilment, there are many other factors one could consider when choosing their desired universities, be it the courses offered, the campus culture, the college ranking or even the location and country of study.  

What are 5 salient points for consideration when choosing your University and why? 

1.Cost and Expenses 

Unsurprisingly, monetary expenses is a significant consideration of many when applying for universities. A rather practical factor, such expenses could include the tuition fees, boarding and accommodation costs, funds for special programs and more – which could certainly add up to a hefty sum. It is thus important to select schools with expenses within your budget, so as to put less stress on your finances.  

Alternatively, a brilliant option would be to zoom in on universities that offer scholarships and student loans of your interest, if you are able to fulfil the attached prerequisites. These would greatly benefit you with subsidized rates, lifting the financial burden off your shoulders.  

For more insights into scholarships offered by local universities, click here. 

2. Admission Requirements

Some universities have higher academic requirements than the others, even across the same courses offered, making them harder to get in.  To avoid wasting your time and effort, it would be wise to apply for universities within your academic abilities, or even those accepting lower grades as a safe choice you could fall back on during unforeseen circumstances. 

If you have unique skills and strengths in a specific field, do also search for universities show interest in students with such strengths, through offering special admission criteria or tailored programs, as these will largely help to develop your expertise in such areas and allow for easier admission. 

3. Course Modules 

What you choose to study in university could greatly affect your future career options and employment prospects, so do put careful consideration into the individual courses and modules offered by each university before applying! Apart from the variety of courses offered, definitely also consider the reputation and employment rates for specific courses from different schools to ensure that your university of choice provides you with the optimal prospects for your future! 

4. Campus Size and Facilities 

Want a spacious and magnificent campus to take a stroll in? Hoping to work out in a well-equipped gym or dine amongst a school with bustling food options? These questions may seem less study-focused, but they are vital in ensuring your mental and physical well-being through your years in university! Thoroughly familiarize yourself with the different facilities offered before you set your mind on a school, as this would determine the environment in which you have your tertiary education. Leave yourself no place for regrets! 

5. Location of Study 

Do you enjoy staying in Singapore and studying in a familiar environment where your family and friends are easily contactable? Or do you hope to venture abroad and experience life beyond the little red dot? If the thought of discovering new and foreign study environments enthralls you, it is time for you to scout for Universities in countries of your interest!  

Unsure of where to start your research? Fret not! From top schools in the UK to reputable Universities in the US, we have got you covered! Below is a list of universities in the UK and US that you could learn about as a start!