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Thinking about applying in 2013?
It's worth thinking about university early, even if you don't plan starting your studies until 2013.
If you are in Year 12, S5 or equivalent and are thinking about applying to university or college in 2013, UCAS has something for you. The UCAS Card is aimed at people who will be heading off to start a higher education course the year after next.
As well as offering some great discounts, signing up to the card means you can receive information on courses and universities. You will also get monthly newsletters with advice on the application process.
So why is it worth thinking about university now? It may seem like ages away, but it definitely pays off to consider what you want to study and where.
While you certainly don't need to know exactly which course you want to do and where, giving some consideration to subject choice will help you pick the right A-levels, Highers or equivalent.
Dr Wendy Piatt, director-general of the Russell Group of universities, thinks it is important young people do not close off avenues of opportunity by picking the wrong subjects in school.
She says: "[It is] crucial that all students are given accurate information, advice and guidance when making choices about subject options which will affect their life chances."
You can use the Entry Profiles section on Course Search to see what A-level or equivalent subjects certain courses require or are desired. University websites and prospectuses will also have this sort of information.
In addition to thinking about how your A-levels will impact your university choice, you can look beyond this stage of your academic career.
"It is unrealistic to expect all young people to have a clear idea of what they want to do career wise, but there is no doubt that decisions made now will have a crucial bearing on future opportunities," explains Kevin Green, chief executive of the Recruitment and Employment Confederation.
The UCAS Card will also allow you the chance to get expert help from UCAS advisers, as well providing the opportunity to chat to other students on yougofurther.co.uk, the UCAS student network.
2011-10-20