researching universities and courses
Making decisions about your future is never easy. Between deciding whether university is right for you, which course to study and where to live it's hard not to be stressed and confused by the situation.
That's why we've asked our experts and current students about everything applying to university entails. From making that first decision about your future career, all the way through to your living situation.
Is university for me?
The differences between school and university
University is very different to school and college, in so many ways! Discover all the changes you have to look forward to.
School vs universityShould I go to university or get a job?
There are pros and cons to both work and study, here are some things to consider when weighing up your options.
Work vs universityHow to decide to go to university
Going to university is a big decision, and it might not be for everyone, figure out if it's the right path for you.
Is university right for me?Which GCSEs do I need to go to university?
If you're choosing your optional GCSEs, it's a good time to start thinking about whether you want to go to university and what you want your future career to be.
How to pick your GCSEsWhich A Levels do I need to go to university?
Making your BTEC and A Level choices could impact which options are available to you at university. We’ve put together a list of things to think about.
Choosing your A LevelsShould I do a Degree Apprenticeship?
Apprenticeships can be a great alternative to traditional university study, you can learn on the job, earn a full-time wage and gain a qualification.
More about degree apprenticeshipsResearching your options
How do I pick which uni to go to?
Take a look through our advice on how to pick the right university.
Choosing a uniHow do I pick which course to do?
We've thought of some ways to figure out what you want to study.
Choosing a courseHow do I choose where to live?
We can help you figure out the best halls of residence for you.
Choosing accommodationFind your course
Thinking about commuting?
Moving away from home isn’t for everyone and commuting can be a cheaper alternative to living in student accommodation. Check out our reasons why staying at home can be a great choice!
Commuting tipsIMPORTANT DATES
Apply now 2025 entry UCAS application deadline
UCAS Extra UCAS Extra opens for applications
Application deadline Final deadline for main cycle applications
Clearing You can now apply through Clearing
A Level results day Students receive their A Level results
Hotlines open Clearing hotlines open
Open Days
BCU Open Days are the perfect opportunity to discover just what we have to offer. Talk to the experts who will be teaching you, chat with current students and tour our state-of-the-art facilities. If you can't wait for one of our Open Day, experience a day in the life as a BCU student through immersive 360-degree tours of our campuses.
Worried about exams? Don't be.