What to Do If You Don’t Get into University

Education concept. Student studying and brainstorming campus con

Nothing is more upsetting than being informed that your desired university has rejected you or having to pass up an opportunity because you cannot afford it. However, it’s crucial to keep in mind that a university rejection letter is not necessarily a sign of doom. In the sad event that you are not admitted to the university, there are many options available to you.

UCAS Clearing

It might be worthwhile to consider Clearing, an official UCAS process that begins in mid-July and offers a wealth of alternative places after A-level results are out in August if you don’t receive an offer from any of the universities, you’re eager to attend.

When handled properly, Clearing can help you find a course and university that you’re truly delighted with. Results day can bring about a frenzied whirl of fresh decisions, anxieties, and questions. You won’t feel lost for very long because, according to UCAS, nearly half of those who use Clearing are hired by the Monday after A-level results day.

Additionally, 77% of candidates who were placed were given their preferred university when they underwent clearing in 2019. They were able to arrive at their preferred place by altering their trajectory.

There’s still a good chance you’ll be attending higher education that year, whether it’s on a different course at your desired university, your chosen course at a different uni, or a completely new start with a brand-new university and course. Clearing can be stressful if places on courses are quickly filled, and there’s no guarantee that you can find a place at your desired university.

It’s crucial to avoid making decisions during Clearing out of pure terror. Take the time you need to consider your options; you can always wait a year to obtain more knowledge and then reapply.

Entry-Level Job

These positions often don’t need applicants to have a relevant professional degree and are open to both high school and college graduates. Some entry-level positions, which are seen as the starting point for a particular profession, don’t even call for applicants to have prior work experience in the industry, as abilities are frequently learned through on-the-job training.

Many entry-level positions are full-time, permanent positions; however, some may only be available part-time or be on a temporary contract.

As examples, consider marketing, teaching (as an assistant), web development, and business analysis (IT).

Three main categories of entry-level employment exist:

  • Traineeships: these are best characterised as a brief term (lasting up to six months) with practical training that gets you ready for an apprenticeship or the workforce. Even if it’s unpaid, you can get paid back for your meals and travel costs.
  • Apprenticeships: these involve both paid labour and more extensive study that leads to a formal qualification.
  • School leaver programmes created by employers: these programmes expose you to the working world while preparing you for professional certification. They combine paid work with training.
A teacher smiling at camera in classroom

Sponsored Degree

Attending university can be costly, but the cost may be covered through a sponsored degree. This entails a corporation paying you a full salary or providing annual bursaries. At the same time, you study – often for three years, the length of a Bachelor’s degree. Additionally, they might pay for your education, allowing you to graduate from college debt-free.

Nowadays, many of these programmes are known as degree apprenticeships, and sponsored degrees are typically offered in technical fields like science and engineering, while some of the nation’s top corporations now provide them in accountancy and finance and IT.

Another advantage, in addition to the money and corporate assistance, is that, in many circumstances, you’ll be assured a job after graduation. Since you’re probably going to have a mentor to offer support and assistance, it’s also a terrific chance to learn from others who are knowledgeable in the field.

Because a sponsored degree is a contractual obligation between you and the company, they will demand payment. For instance, this can include working while your university peers are on breaks. If you’re interested, you should look into businesses that fund degrees. Due to the fact that many businesses will have partner institutions, it is likely that they will decide on the university and subject.

Take a Gap Year and Reapply

It can be worthwhile to reapply for next year’s entrance if you are unsuccessful in finding the ideal location for you during this application cycle or if you believe you could strengthen your application by adding experience to your résumé or improving your grades. Here are some suggestions to maximise your leisure time:

Experience at Work

During your gap year, working is a terrific method to get particular practical skills that will stand out in your application and to collect money for your ultimate entrance into university life.

Internships

Do you wish to enhance your academic credentials and develop a deeper interest in your intended field of study? Participate in internships related to your future course to strengthen your profile. You can have the in-depth knowledge of industries, including economics and medicine from the counsellors.

Online Programs

With subject-specific courses you can improve your subject knowledge and get ready for your entry into higher education. These courses span anything from law to engineering. Attending online classes that go above and beyond the requirements shows institutions that you’re interested in your field and prepared to put in the effort to advance your knowledge.

Work in International Aid

Volunteer work develops several “real world” life skills that simplify your transition into adulthood and looks excellent on a résumé. Organizations like International Citizen Service provide 18 to 25-year-olds with abroad volunteer positions where they can work in teams to improve specific areas. Remember that this is not a vacation overseas; rather, make use of the chance to learn from the communities you are placed with while enhancing your organisational and collaborative abilities.

Final Thoughts

The most crucial thing to remember is to stay calm and collected if your first choice of university does not extend an offer. A snag in your initial strategy gives you the chance to investigate a wide range of alternative alternatives.

It’s possible that the university of your second pick will provide a superior learning environment. Make care to think about the intellectual and personal happiness that each university may provide you.

There are other ways to continue your education outside of enrolling in a university. Check to see if there are any entry-level positions or apprenticeships that catch your attention. These could speed up your job advancement compared to a traditional bachelor’s degree.

Whatever  your goals if you need help getting those top grades then just complete the form and we will be in contact within 24 hours. 

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