How to Choose the Right University

After finishing school, it is high time to decide on the university that will suit you best. This may be one of the most important decisions in your life as it determines your future career, circle of friends, accommodation, etc. With numerous universities to choose from, narrowing it down to the right option is not an easy task. By having proper research, though, you will be able to identify the right destination. Thus, there are some steps to be taken in order to find the most suitable option. If you are one of those who are challenged by the choice, keep reading.

Choose the subject you are interested in

Just think of it, you will spend your next four or five years studying the in-depths of the selected subject. And then you will most likely have to work in this area for the rest of your life. With this thought in your mind, you should understand the importance of choosing the subject you are passionate about. If you have any doubts about your choice, read as much information about it as you can. It won’t hurt to check future employers, salaries, working conditions, and any other aspects of your future job which may convince you to study the subject or look for other options. In any case, don’t hurry up with your final decision.

Consult the university rankings

Each university has a ranking crafted according to the general educational standards. And this is something you can’t just ignore. Whether you are looking for the most prestigious educational environment or a strong department with the best professors, you should set your priorities. While Oxford has the reputation of the top-notch university, Sussex University has the best chemistry department in Europe. So, look not for the most popular university but for the place that would give you the best conditions for learning your exact subject.

Check what the university library is like

Considering the number of hours you are going to spend with your books, you may want to know what the university library looks like. This house of knowledge should be comfortable enough to encourage efficient learning. Also, you should find out whether there is a 24/7 cafè on campus as you never know when you are in the mood to study.

See the course content

Most universities usually provide the course content on their websites. If there is a particular area within the subject you are looking for, check whether the university offers it at all. Don’t forget that you can always contact the university directly. This way you will get more information on how you will be taught and assessed, which disciplines will be included, and what are the conditions for enrollment.

Go to open days

Better to see something once than to read or hear about it many times. While visiting the university, you will get a ‘feel’ for the place. Thus, your final decision would better to be based on how you feel on the open day. It is highly recommended to create a checklist of the things that will be crucial to you and see how each of your points fare.

On the open day, there will be lots going on, so don’t miss anything. Try to talk to as many people as possible and check out all the facilities. There is a high chance that you will have to move to another city. Thus, you should also gain a better understanding of the area you are going to live in. All this information you will need to develop an objective opinion about your educational choice.

Have a look at offered sports and societies

For some of you, this may be the last thing to think of. Still, the university is not only about studying. You surely have some hobbies like football, basketball, poker, or chess so that it would be silly to miss the opportunity to join special societies and clubs in the university. So, don’t forget to check this information as well.

What’s next?

Now when you find the university that suits you, you need to get into it! This will be a totally different story! But with enough confidence and courage, you will complete this mission successfully.