As the UCAS deadline nears, the University Alliance aims to ease student worries by debunking common myths about university choices and career prospects
City: London
With the UCAS deadline of January 29 fast approaching, students are feeling the heat. It’s that time when they need to decide where and what to study come September.
But let’s be real, this whole process can be super stressful. Many students are worried about making choices that could really shape their future.
Recent research shows that about 70% of university applicants feel anxious about picking the right university. A good chunk, around 28%, are really worried about choosing the right subject. Plus, more than half are concerned they might not be “academic enough” for university.
To help ease these worries, the University Alliance has teamed up with UCAS to bust some myths about who can go to university and what the best choices are.
Interestingly, half of the undergraduates in 2022/24 had parents who never attended university. And 73% of first-gen graduates say their degree helped them feel confident in the job market.
Since 2017, there’s been a 22% rise in black and Asian students going to university, showing that it’s an option for everyone.
Plus, only 8% of employers care about which university a candidate attended. They’re more interested in enthusiasm and real-world experience, which suggests that picking the “right” university isn’t as crucial as many think.
Another myth is that you’ll struggle to find a job if you don’t choose the right subject. But just over half of employers say the subject studied is important to them. Interestingly, 69% of graduates feel they’re using what they learned in their jobs.
Despite all the worries, most UK graduates say going to university was a great choice or even the best decision they ever made.
While most universities have a January 29 application deadline, Oxford University has already sent out offers. Some lucky students got their offers last week to study at this prestigious school starting next academic year.
The application process kicked off with a UCAS deadline on October 15, so it’s been a busy time for students!
