As we approach the A-levels Results Day on the 17th August 2023 and potentially the Clearing process, Gabbitas consultants wanted to provide you with some important tips to help your children prepare for their phone calls with universities.
For Clearing, check which universities are open and the courses with availability at https://www.ucas.com/clearing-launch
The following steps will ensure a smooth and successful Results Day experience:
1.Prepare a long list that includes the university name, phone number, course code and title. Leave space to note down any important details during the call. This will help you stay organised and avoid confusion.
2. Research each university and the course. Familiarise yourself with key information, such as their offerings and reputation. Utilise university websites, league tables, and platforms like Unibuddy or similar https://www.ucas.com/chat-to-students to gather insights from current students.
3. Before making any calls, have the following items ready in front of you:
- Your UCAS Personal ID number
- Your Clearing number
- Your grades/UCAS Tariff points
- Bullet points outlining why you want a place on the course and your relevant achievements (based on your Personal statement)
- Choose a quiet location with a good phone signal to ensure clear communication during your calls. It is crucial that both parties can hear each other clearly.
While it may be tempting to have someone else make the calls on your behalf, it is essential that you speak directly to the university. Remember that the university staff are there to assist you, and there is no need to worry or be intimidated.
4. Be positive, enthusiastic, and polite. Make a strong impression by showing your passion and enthusiasm for the course. Clearly articulate why you want a place at the university. Even if you feel stressed, maintain a polite and calm demeanour to increase your chances of success.
5. Please note that some universities will ask you to send further information or proof of your grades via email after the call to complete additional checks before confirming whether you can apply or not.
If your child did not achieve their offer grades, the first thing they need to do is still contact their firm/insurance choice universities to enquire if they can still be considered. Sometimes universities may still consider a candidate who did not meet their predicted grades.
6. Do not hesitate to reconsider universities that you previously declined. If you had a positive experience during a campus visit or felt it was a good fit for you, there is nothing wrong with exploring those options again.
7. While it may be a busy period, ensure you make an informed decision. Do not rush into choices out of desperation. Take the time to select a university and course that genuinely aligns with your aspirations and interests.
You can only apply for one university and a course via UCAS for Clearing. Therefore, it is important to weigh up your options and research the shortlist of preferred universities (based on phone call feedback) before you decide which to apply for.
If speaking on the phone is challenging for you, remember that universities often offer various communication channels. Utilise emails, live chat functions or reach out through social media platforms to connect with admissions teams.
