7 Things to Consider When Thinking About Going to University

Look beyond academics to find the university that best matches your needs, goals, and aspirations.

If you're looking to go to university, you'll know that you have important choices to make in terms of which university to go to and what you want to study. Still, there are many other things to consider about where your next academic steps should take you!

You should do thorough research before you apply, so you can find institutions that best match your needs and aspirations.

1. Review the program structure

A major part in choosing a university to go to is the program. You may have an undergraduate or postgraduate program in mind, or you are not sure what you want to study yet, and that's fine.

However, one of the first things you could search for is the program you want to take on and the program structure. You could look at individual modules to see if they align with your interests, assessment methods, and the teachers and academics. The program must suit you and your future goals.

2. Employability and career-building opportunities

We know that one area of university that may be incredibly important to you is how it can enhance your employability.

It's worth looking at graduate outcomes and researching employment rates, further study opportunities, and particular careers secured by graduates. You could also search for universities that have strong links with employers, industry partnerships, and placement opportunities, which can help you assess what's offered in terms of career support.

3. Facilities that can support you

Some universities may have campus facilities that attract you more than others, and so they deserve careful consideration. Look into information on libraries, laboratories, specialist equipment, sports facilities, study spaces, and accommodation.

Check out video tours, student stories, and social media to get a feel for a university's surroundings and what they offer. It will help you visualize yourself on that particular campus.

4. A student experience that will provide you with lifelong memories

Wherever you choose to study, it's important that you feel happy and comfortable, and student life extends beyond academics. You also need to consider the things you could get involved in, hobbies you'd like to develop, and friends you'd like to meet that have shared interests.

It's worth researching a university's clubs, societies, volunteering opportunities, and student support services.

Each of these areas can reveal how well a university caters to your interests and needs. What's more, support for mental health, wellbeing, disabilities, and academic skills is also important. These services, particularly for international students, can be incredibly important during your time at university, and so they are worth looking into further.

5. A location that suits your future goals

Location is another important factor when considering which university you should study at. Do you prefer a bustling city environment, a traditional campus setting, or a smaller town that may present specific benefits such as enhanced safety?

Whatever you would prefer, researching local and international transport links, living costs, part-time employment opportunities, and things to do within the area can support you with deciding whether a certain location suits your lifestyle and budget.

6. Funding and scholarship opportunities

Another area that you should look into is the financial aspect of university. Be sure to search for funding opportunities for undergraduate and postgraduate study levels, scholarships, and research grants if relevant.

Understanding tuition fees and available financial support can make a significant difference when choosing between institutions and gaining this information can set you up for success and clarity.

7. Other students' opinions

A lot of students want to hear from the students who have been there, and so it's a good idea to chat to prospective students, such as via a chat function, or look at reviews, student stories and testimonials from current students and recent graduates.

Open days, webinars, and university events also provide fantastic opportunities for you to ask questions and gain those all-important first-hand insights.

As you begin to research universities and look at everything from program content to the student support offered, you can make an informed decision and choose the university that supports you to do what matters most – that's thriving academically, professionally, and personally.

At Loughborough University, students benefit from a combination of inspiring teaching, strong career-building opportunities, outstanding facilities, a welcoming campus community and a student experience recognised as one of the best in the UK. Taking the time to explore your options, attend an open day and speak to current students can help you decide whether Loughborough is the right place to achieve your ambitions.