General Student Advice Articles

In this section, we’ll give you all the general advice you need when studying at university or college as well as some information regarding A Levels, GCSEs, T Levels and university entrance exams.

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About Student Advice

Our general advice section is the perfect place to come for students that are looking to learn about everything. In this section, we’ll take a look at some of the different university courses you will come across, how to handle university open days, the different kinds of university entrance exams and what life is like at university. ...

Featured Article

Student AdviceThe ultimate guide to applying for university

Aug 20th 2024 · 4 min read

Applying to university can feel a bit of a daunting task, but try not to panic! Break it down into manageable chunks and you’ll have plenty of time to sort things out and pick the course of your dreams!

General Student Advice Articles

Student Advice What is a UCAS application? Everything you need to know

Dec 10th 2024 · 5 min read

Your UCAS application is the spark that lights the fire beneath the simmering pot that is your university application. ...

Student Advice What is the HNC?

Nov 14th 2024 · 11 min read

The HNC is a vocational qualification that shows employers that you've gained strong knowledge and the practical sk...

Student Advice 50 best fancy dress ideas for students

Nov 14th 2024 · 3 min read

With freshers just around the corner, there is plenty to look forward too with your clubs and societies coming up with ...

Student Advice What is an SVQ and what is it equivalent to?

Oct 29th 2024 · 2 min read

If you’re in Scotland and looking to show an employer that you’re ready to jump into work, the SVQ may be the path for ...

Student Advice New research reveals the most LGBTQ+ friendly UK cities for students

Oct 24th 2024 · 2 min read

When it comes to choosing your university, every student wants to ensure they feel safe and appreciated in their new ci...

Student Advice What is Turnitin?

Oct 24th 2024

When you're at university you will likely come across the essay-submission software Turnitin.

Student Advice Placement Year

Oct 24th 2024

All you need to know if you are interested in having a placement as part of your degree,

Student Advice What is a law conversion course?

Oct 24th 2024 · 4 min read

A Law conversion course is an excellent way to begin a career in law. If you’ve studied a different subject at universi...

Student Advice Psychology Degree Entry Requirements

Oct 24th 2024 · 5 min read

Psychology is one of the most popular courses in the UK. The course studies the human psyche, blending modules in resea...

Student Advice Physiotherapy Degree Entry Requirements

Oct 24th 2024 · 5 min read

Physiotherapy is one of the most popular courses in the UK. It is a wide-ranging degree that focuses on many elements o...

Student Advice Nursing Degree Entry Requirements

Oct 24th 2024 · 5 min read

Nursing is one of the most popular courses in the UK. The course looks at medical care, public health, epidemiology, cr...

Student Advice Medicine Degree Entry Requirements

Oct 24th 2024 · 5 min read

Medicine ranks as one of the UK's most popular and most challenging courses. The course covers elements of clinical...

Student Advice Preparing for the BMAT and UCAT: A Guide for Medicine Applicants

Oct 24th 2024 · 6 min read

The BMAT and the UCAT are both important medical-based university admissions tests. There are a large number of univers...

Student Advice Pharmacy Degree Entry Requirements

Oct 24th 2024 · 5 min read

A pharmacy degree is one of the most popular degrees in the UK. It is a degree that covers the theoretical and practica...

Student Advice What is the HAT?

Oct 24th 2024 · 4 min read

There are a number of university admissions tests that a student may have to sit before they attend university. Not all...

Student Advice What is the LNAT?

Oct 11th 2024 · 4 min read

Many law courses ask you to sit an entrance exam as part of the application process. The most common is the LNAT.

Student Advice What is the GMAT?

Oct 7th 2024 · 3 min read

Universities may ask you to sit an entrance exam as part of the application process. For those attending a business sch...

Student Advice How to make an effective revision timetable to boost your productivity

Sep 30th 2024 · 4 min read

Half the struggle with revision is knowing how to effectively manage your time and being able to juggle focusing on dif...

Student Advice What is an undergraduate degree and what to expect?

Sep 27th 2024 · 2 min read

Heading to university for the first time? That would make you an undergraduate! Find out exactly what this means and wh...

Student Advice What to do about bullying at university

Sep 12th 2024

If you experience bullying or harassment while studying, universities are there to support you and take the necessary s...

Student Advice What to eat as a student

Aug 22nd 2024 · 2 min read

Unsure what to eat at university? This may be your first time buying food and cooking for yourself, so here's some ...

Student Advice How to manage working while studying

Aug 21st 2024

Balancing your studies and working part-time is essential, it can easily be done if our tips and advice are implemented.

Student Advice University entry requirements - what do you need to apply?

Aug 21st 2024

A good place to start when comparing university courses is to look at the entry requirements; they can help you differe...

Student Advice Tackling tuition fees: what you need to know

Aug 21st 2024

After the 2010 UK elections, university tuition fees notoriously raised to up to £9,000 a year from £3,000.

Student Advice What are university interviews?

Aug 21st 2024

During the university application process, you may find yourself being invited to one or more institutions for a face-t...

Student Advice How to revise

Aug 21st 2024

How do you revise? How do you revise so well that it’s almost impossible to fail? These are the questions every student...

Student Advice What university admissions tests do you need for university?

Aug 21st 2024 · 8 min read

Admission tests are similar to university interviews, as institutions use these to determine whether they wish to offer...

Student Advice What are university societies?

Aug 21st 2024 · 4 min read

University societies are excellent ways of pursuing hobbies, meeting new people, gaining responsibilities and making fr...

Student Advice What does a two year degree cover?

Aug 21st 2024

One of the growing degrees in terms of popularity is that of the Two-Year degree, which we have provided you with a use...

Student Advice Dropping out of uni: what you need to know

Aug 21st 2024

University is a challenging time and once you get there you may realise it's not for you. If you're thinking of...

Student Advice The ultimate student calendar

Aug 21st 2024 · 7 min read

You won’t miss a uni deadline with our student calendar. Everything from 2023 and into the end of 2024 is covered for y...

Student Advice What is a Diploma of Higher Education (DipHE)?

Aug 21st 2024 · 3 min read

Looking to gain a vocational qualification? A Diploma of Higher Education (DipHE) might be the one for you! Here’s ever...

Student Advice What is a HND?

Aug 21st 2024 · 2 min read

A Higher National Diploma (HND) qualification uses studying and practical elements to prepare students for a particular...

Student Advice Make Freshers' week 2024 one to remember - everything you need to know

Aug 21st 2024 · 3 min read

You’ve secured your place, and now you’re off to uni. First stop? Freshers week! This week is a chance to get to know y...

Student Advice What is a research university?

Aug 20th 2024 · 5 min read

A research university is a type of higher education institution that strongly emphasises academic research as a core co...

Student Advice What is a virtual interview?

Aug 20th 2024 · 5 min read

Virtual interviews are the new normal, but how are they different from a traditional interview?

Student Advice What is a collegiate university?

Aug 20th 2024 · 13 min read

Collegiate universities are hugely popular for students looking to go to university. Colleges are an excellent way for ...

Student Advice What is the TSA admissions test?

Aug 20th 2024 · 4 min read

The Thinking Skills Assessment admissions test (known as the TSA)is a test designed as part of the admissions criteria...

Student Advice Top questions to ask at a university open day

Aug 20th 2024 · 4 min read

Choosing the right university can be a daunting task, with so many factors to consider, including academic programs, ca...

Student Advice How do I choose the right university for me?

Aug 20th 2024 · 3 min read

Choosing a university can be a daunting task, as it is a decision that can have a significant impact on your future.

Student Advice The ultimate guide to applying for university

Aug 20th 2024 · 4 min read

Applying to university can feel a bit of a daunting task, but try not to panic! Break it down into manageable chunks an...

Student Advice What is a Students’ Union (SU)?

Aug 20th 2024 · 2 min read

The Students’ Union is there for you! Whether it’s student support or hosting memorable student events, the SU will be ...

Student Advice University lectures: what to expect and how to make the most of your learning

Aug 20th 2024 · 2 min read

Lectures aren't just what your mum gives you, they are a great source of learning at university. You'll likely ...

Student Advice Leave nothing behind with the ultimate university packing list

Aug 15th 2024

Exciting times await! Get set for the big move with our ultimate uni checklist. From the university essentials to perso...

Student Advice When is T Level Results Day? Here's what to expect

Aug 15th 2024

Today's the day! T Level results will be released on Thursday 15th August 2024. For some, it will be the start of t...

Student Advice BTEC Results Day 2024

Aug 15th 2024 · 3 min read

Today's the day! BTEC Results Day 2024 is here, on Thursday 15th August. Prepare for the future and understand how ...

Student Advice SQA Results Day 2024

Aug 6th 2024 · 8 min read

SQA Results Day is on Tuesday 6 August 2024. It’s a stressful day so here’s a simple guide with everything you need to ...

Student Advice What is an Undergraduate Certificate of Higher Education (CertHE)?

Jul 31st 2024 · 3 min read

A Certificate of Higher Education is a flexible way of gaining a qualification that supports a particular subject.

Student Advice NVQs: All you need to know

Jul 30th 2024 · 2 min read

A National Vocational Qualification (NVQ) is a great way of expanding your skills and getting you set for the world of ...

Student Advice Understanding mitigating circumstances

Jul 29th 2024 · 2 min read

There are instances where personal circumstances can affect your education. Mitigating circumstances allows you to take...

Student Advice CATs test and CAT4 in secondary school

Jul 29th 2024 · 2 min read

Schools use the Cognitive Abilities Test to help judge students' cognitive abilities before secondary school. CAT4 ...

Student Advice What's it like to study English at university?

Jul 25th 2024 · 2 min read

Considering a degree in English? Learn more about what you can do with an English degree and hear from a recent English...

Student Advice MAT Test

Jul 23rd 2024

Those looking to study anything involving mathematics will likely need to look into the possibility of sitting the MATS...

Student Advice What are the Russell Group universities?

Jul 23rd 2024 · 6 min read

The Russell Group is one of the UK's most famous groups of universities. But, what universities are part of the Rus...

Student Advice What is the honours degree system?

Jul 16th 2024

Many undergraduate courses will be honours degrees - but what does it mean for your course and how it's graded? Let...

Student Advice What are the different university groups?

Jul 11th 2024 · 7 min read

Lots of universities belong to specialised groups. These groups can focus on everything from advanced research to creat...

Student Advice UCAS Adjustment

Jul 11th 2024

Adjustment is an opportunity for potential students who have already filled out their UCAS application and have receive...

Student Advice What is it Like to Study Business at University?

Jul 11th 2024

Business is a degree that is hyper-focused on getting you the best chance possible at any job you apply for. A Business...

Student Advice What is a student railcard?

Jul 11th 2024 · 5 min read

With the price of inner-city travel rising all the time, it's good for students to have a cheaper, more affordable ...

Student Advice What to expect studying a STEM subject

Jul 11th 2024

STEM subjects can be the gateway to a whole host of careers in the science and technology space all around the world! H...

Student Advice Mature Student

Jul 11th 2024

There are plenty of people who subscribe to the theory of “University is a young person’s game”, how wrong these people...

Student Advice What is the GAMSAT?

Jul 11th 2024 · 5 min read

Medical-based degrees are growing in popularity with each passing year and universities are starting to make sure that ...

Student Advice What is the ECTS?

Jul 11th 2024 · 5 min read

Looking to study abroad? Get an idea of what your grades will look like! It’s time to look at the grading systems used ...

Student Advice What is the BMAT?

Jul 11th 2024 · 7 min read

Those looking to study a medical-based degree may be required to sit one of two exams; one is the BMAT, the other is th...

Student Advice 10 top ranked universities in Clearing 2024

Jul 8th 2024 · 3 min read

Quickly see some of the universities in Clearing ranked amongst the top, based on Uni Compare’s rankings that focus on ...

Student Advice Everything you need to know about red brick universities

Jun 24th 2024 · 3 min read

While the term “red brick” universities came from the distinct features of the uni buildings, it’s now used to refer to...

Student Advice Dropping out or transferring universities

Jun 20th 2024 · 6 min read

It’s a frustrating experience when university doesn’t live up to your expectations. Here’s all you need to know about t...

Student Advice Everything you need to know about the EPQ

Jun 11th 2024

Heard of the EPQ but not sure what it is or how it helps your uni application? Read on!

Student Advice What is a foundation degree and is it right for you?

Jun 5th 2024 · 3 min read

Foundation degrees are a great way to give you the necessary skills for the working world. But, what are they compared ...

Student Advice Using ChatGPT at university

May 13th 2024 · 7 min read

ChatGPT is the new kid on the block. As one of the most popular artificial intelligence (AI) chatbots, more and more pe...

Student Advice What is a BEng?

May 7th 2024 · 4 min read

Students looking to take a more refined and structured approach towards the world of Engineering, should look at the BE...

Student Advice What is the TOTUM card (formerly the NUS card)

May 2nd 2024 · 3 min read

One of the best perks of being a student is the discounts you get! One way to secure the discounts? A TOTUM card!

Student Advice What are Scottish Highers?

Apr 19th 2024 · 3 min read

Scottish Highers are important qualifications if you're from Scotland and looking to go to university.

Student Advice How does the UK university grading system work?

Apr 3rd 2024 · 5 min read

Whether you’re already studying or are about to, it is important to understand how the UK university grading system wor...

Student Advice What are education levels?

Mar 27th 2024 · 5 min read

There are many levels of education in the UK - some compulsory, some not. From GCSEs through to PhD, let’s walk you thr...

Student Advice Looking to be successful? Here are the top subjects Forbes 30 Under 30 winners studied!

Mar 5th 2024 · 3 min read

When it comes to choosing your degree, part of the decision-making process is knowing what you want to do after. Lookin...

Student Advice What is TEFL?

Jan 29th 2024 · 8 min read

More and more people are looking into the possibilities of TEFL, with figures rising every single year, but what is TEF...

Student Advice What is graduation?

Jan 29th 2024 · 2 min read

This is it, you’ve done it! Dissertations and coursework complete, you’ve got your results, and now it’s off to celebra...

Student Advice How do I appeal my final grade?

Jan 10th 2024 · 4 min read

Most universities, colleges and schools will have an appeals procedure in place for students. Each institute is differe...

Student Advice What is the Duolingo English Test?

Dec 22nd 2023 · 6 min read

Most people mainly know Duolingo as the language-learning app that simply won’t leave you alone. While most students ma...

Student Advice What is a Sandwich Course?

Dec 19th 2023 · 6 min read

What is a Sandwich course and how do you apply for one? Well, luckily for you, we’ve got a useful guide to tell you eve...

Student Advice What to expect from a part-time degree and how to apply

Dec 13th 2023 · 3 min read

For many students, a part-time degree is a preferred way of studying an undergraduate or postgraduate course. Many univ...

Student Advice What is the UCAT?

Dec 5th 2023 · 9 min read

Those looking to study a medical-based degree may be required to sit one of two exams, one is the BMAT, the other is th...

Student Advice How to Write an Impressive Student CV: A Guide to Standing Out

Dec 5th 2023 · 8 min read

Your CV is a necessity for any job. A CV is a way for employers to see all the things about you that make you unique an...

Student Advice Nigerian Students Looking to Study in the UK

Dec 5th 2023

In the city of London alone, there are nearly 3,000 students from Nigeria that are studying a course at a world-renowne...

Student Advice Bachelor’s Degree

Dec 5th 2023

A Bachelor’s or undergraduate degree is an academic qualification designed to aid students to gain insight into a subje...

Student Advice Language barriers at university

Dec 4th 2023 · 6 min read

Studying abroad can be the opportunity of a lifetime. However, in some cases, unexpected things can arise, such as the ...

Student Advice What is deferred entry?

Nov 16th 2023 · 4 min read

Deferred entry can be an excellent way for students to begin their studies. A year out in the world before you tackle y...

Student Advice What is Access to Higher Education?

Nov 16th 2023 · 4 min read

For students who have yet to study an undergraduate degree, there is a kind of degree out there, that is just for you. ...

Student Advice What it's like to study Psychology at university from a student!

Nov 15th 2023 · 5 min read

Curious about the human mind? Pondering the idea of studying psychology? Psychology degrees are a popular choice among ...

Student Advice Changing courses at university

Nov 13th 2023 · 5 min read

Sometimes, the course you initially picked out just isn’t for you. Don’t worry; this happens to plenty of students.

Student Advice What is a joint honours degree?

Nov 2nd 2023 · 4 min read

Looking to expand your knowledge beyond the one subject? Enter a join honours degree! Get the chance to study two subje...

Student Advice What is STEP?

Oct 31st 2023 · 3 min read

The STEP exam is one of the lesser-known admissions exams for students. It is an exam that is not required by all unive...

Student Advice What is the PAT (Physics Admissions Test)?

Oct 26th 2023 · 3 min read

For many, university admissions tests are essential parts of the university application process. More and more universi...

Student Advice What is an MRes degree?

Sep 21st 2023 · 3 min read

An MRes (Masters of Research) is recognised worldwide and has become one of the most popular degrees in the UK. Many st...

Student Advice What is Oxbridge?

Sep 14th 2023 · 6 min read

Oxbridge remains one of the most desirable sets of universities in the UK. Aside from being two of the oldest academic ...

Student Advice What is May Week?

Sep 7th 2023 · 4 min read

May Week at the University of Cambridge is a highly anticipated period that marks the end of the academic year. Let’s h...

Student Advice What is the ELAT?

Aug 25th 2023 · 4 min read

The ELAT is one of the general admissions test that Oxbridge applicants have to fill out. The test is designed to be ta...

Student Advice What is the MLAT?

Aug 25th 2023 · 5 min read

The MLAT is one of the admissions tests needed to attend the University of Oxford. The test is a challenging admissions...

Student Advice Oxford vs Cambridge

Aug 25th 2023 · 12 min read

Oxbridge is the term used for both the University of Cambridge and the University of Oxford.

Student Advice Find your crowd: weird and wonderful societies you have to check out

Aug 24th 2023 · 4 min read

Where there’s an interest, there’s a uni society! Find like-minded pals at university and explore the unique selection ...

Student Advice What Are T Levels?

Aug 17th 2023 · 5 min read

T Levels are the next step in education. Seen as an alternative to A-Levels and the beginning of the end for BTECs, T L...

Student Advice How to Nail Your Oxbridge Interview

Aug 14th 2023 · 5 min read

Oxford and Cambridge, also known as Oxbridge, are commonly regarded as two of the hardest universities to secure a plac...

Student Advice Decoding University Jargon: A Glossary for Year 13 Students

Aug 4th 2023 · 22 min read

The jargon of university and the application process can be confusing for anyone. Don’t worry; even the seasoned pros s...

Student Advice What is the Turing Scheme?

Aug 4th 2023 · 4 min read

Student exchange programmes are hugely popular at universities for students. The Erasmus Programme, which was in place ...

Student Advice Marketing Degree Entry Requirements

Jul 18th 2023 · 4 min read

Marketing is a hugely popular course across the UK. The course focuses on advertising, finance, communications and gene...

Student Advice Law Degree Entry Requirements

Jul 14th 2023 · 4 min read

Law is one of the most popular courses in the UK. It is a course that covers various topics, modules and subjects.

Student Advice History Degree Entry Requirements

Jul 13th 2023 · 4 min read

History degrees are some of the most popular in the UK. These courses focus on the past and how it can impact the futur...

Student Advice Finance Degree Entry Requirements

Jul 11th 2023 · 4 min read

A finance degree focuses on several key aspects of the finance world. Despite this, you can find challenging and reward...

Student Advice Engineering Degree Entry Requirements

Jul 10th 2023 · 4 min read

Engineering courses are some of the most popular in the UK. These courses focus on providing students with an understan...

Student Advice Education Degree Entry Requirements

Jul 7th 2023 · 4 min read

Education degrees focus on many different modules. Pursuing an education degree can open doors to a rewarding career in...

Student Advice Economics Degree Entry Requirements

Jul 6th 2023 · 4 min read

Economics degrees are among the most popular courses offered by universities today. They tackle the tricky world of fin...

Student Advice Criminology Degree Entry Requirements

Jul 6th 2023 · 4 min read

Criminology is a course that focuses on different aspects of law enforcement and criminal methodology. It is one of the...

Student Advice Computer Science Degree Entry Requirements

Jul 3rd 2023 · 4 min read

Computer science is one of the most popular subjects in the UK. It is a subject that combines general information techn...

Student Advice Business Degree Entry Requirements

Jun 28th 2023 · 4 min read

A business degree is one of the most popular courses available in the UK. Entry requirements are constantly changing an...

Student Advice Accounting Degree Entry Requirements

Jun 27th 2023 · 4 min read

A career in accounting can open up a world of opportunities and pave the way for a successful and rewarding career.

Student Advice What is it Like to Study Engineering at University?

Jun 7th 2023

An Engineering degree is one of the most sought-after degrees at university. Universities only accept the best for an E...

Student Advice Exam Stress

May 4th 2023 · 5 min read

Exam stress is an unfortunate component of any exam. They go hand-in-hand and sometimes, it can get the better of even ...

Student Advice How to Revise Using Past Papers

May 4th 2023 · 4 min read

Revision is an essential part of any student's academic journey. It is the process of reviewing and consolidating w...

Student Advice What Is A CPCAB Qualification?

Aug 5th 2022

Looking to become a registered counsellor but have no previous experience or qualifications? This is where CPCAB comes ...

Student Advice What is CPD?

Jun 29th 2022 · 5 min read

Though you may not need to worry about your continuing professional development (CPD) when at university, it is somethi...

Student Advice TEF Awards

Apr 19th 2022

Going to university, you may wonder whether or not the TEF Awards are actually relevant to you and your studies.

Student Advice University Alliance

Feb 28th 2022

University Alliance brings together a group of global universities that have a keen interest in science, technology and...

Student Advice BTEC

Feb 21st 2022

The BTEC qualification combines practical learning with theory work and study.

Student Advice Choosing a Degree Course

Feb 17th 2022

There are a lot of factors to consider before choosing a degree course.

Student Advice What is it Like to Study Medicine at University?

Nov 29th 2021

Medicine is one of the most prestigious degrees in the UK and is also one of the most rewarding.

Student Advice What is it Like to Study Law at University?

Nov 29th 2021

Law is one of the most interesting and popular courses at university. Learn more about what it’s like to study Law at u...

Student Advice NCTJ Qualification

Nov 29th 2021

Those looking to work in the world of journalism will be thankful to know that there is a qualification for students lo...

Student Advice Why Learning to Cook Before University is a Good Idea

Nov 29th 2021

When you move out from home, one of the biggest challenges is to come to grips with losing home cooked meals, and even ...

Student Advice DipTrans

Nov 29th 2021

What is a DipTrans? Well, we’ve got a guide below that tells you everything you need to know about a DipTrans.

Student Advice Attending University With a Learning Difficulty

Nov 29th 2021

Individuals who have learning difficulties or disabilities may find the university academic experience daunting, whethe...

Student Advice Open Days: A Guide

Nov 15th 2021

At university open days you can expect to talk to tutors, lecturers and previous students who will offer advice about s...

Student Advice TMUA

Oct 27th 2021

Admissions tests have become more and more common at major universities as applications rise every year.

Student Advice Pass Plus

Oct 27th 2021

The Pass Plus Test is a scheme run to help new drivers to gain confidence in driving and general road knowledge that go...

Student Advice CSCS Card

Oct 25th 2021

The CSCS Card is a huge part of working on a construction site and with more students working in the world of engineeri...

Student Advice Advice on Living at Home During University

Oct 19th 2021

Young adults who are choosing to begin their journey at university may have already overcome several tough decisions, f...

Student Advice SQA

Aug 5th 2021

The Scottish Qualifications Authority known for short as SQA is the national Scottish body responsible for accrediting ...

Student Advice Why Planning at University is Going to Help

Aug 3rd 2021

Organisation isn’t a trait that every person, colleague and student has, however, planning at university is going to he...

Student Advice University Interview Questions

Aug 2nd 2021

University interviews are a very daunting thing, especially if you’ve never ever actually had an interview before or if...

Student Advice Exam Revision Tips

Jul 28th 2021

The dreaded exam period can send even the most prepared students into panic mode.

Student Advice Living a Healthy University Lifestyle

Jul 28th 2021

During your first year at university, the pressures of studying combined with financial worries, a need to keep fit and...

Student Advice What to Do About Sexual Harassment or Rape at University

Feb 11th 2021

This article is one of the most unfortunate things that we have to cover on our website. At University Compare we aim t...

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